Partnership Agreement Signed for the Implementation of PVL.ONE in Casablanca

Casablanca, 2 October 2024 – A new partnership has been formalised between the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport and the Institute for Training in Logistics and Transport (IFTL) in Casablanca. This collaboration marks the beginning of the implementation of the PVL.ONE platform, an innovative training tool designed to enhance professional competencies in the field of logistics and transport.

The agreement was signed by Eduard Rodés, Director of the Escola Europea, and Mohamed Karaouane, Director of the IFTL. The signing ceremony was attended by key representatives from both organisations and other industry leaders. Pictured at the event alongside the signees were Yassir Lamnadi from the Escola Europea, Hicham Soufi, Vice President of the Moroccan Freight Forwarding Association (AFFM), Fedwa Driouch, Dr. Sanaa Hassini, Mostapha Benhima from Grimaldi, and Rachid Tahri, President of the Moroccan Freight Forwarders Association.

PVL.ONE is a cutting-edge virtual platform designed to simulate port operations, providing users with real-world scenarios that improve decision-making skills and operational efficiency. The partnership between the Escola and IFTL seeks to strengthen the logistics and transport training infrastructure in Morocco, aligning with the country’s goals of increasing sustainability and competitiveness in the global market.

Through this collaboration, professionals in Morocco will gain access to top-tier training solutions that leverage the latest in technology and innovation, fostering greater expertise in the logistics sector.

For more information, please contact: info@escolaeuropea.eu.

PLIKA Hosts Successful First Webinar

On September 12th, at 11:00 CET, PLIKA hosted its inaugural webinar on Digital Solutions and Artificial Intelligence in Ports exclusively for its members, known as PLIKERS. The event attracted approximately 27 participants and featured two distinguished speakers, each with extensive experience in the port and logistics sectors.

The first speaker, Prof. Alaa Morsy, Vice President of PLIKA, brought over 23 years of expertise in port operations, specialising in training, consulting, and research with a focus on sustainability and innovation. His presentation, titled “Digital Solutions for Sustainable Port Operations,” explored the evolution of technology from the agricultural era to the current digitalization era, and how these advancements are reshaping the port industry.

Prof. Morsy emphasised the growing role of port automation systems, highlighting tools such as intelligent cranes, automated vehicles, remotely monitored Rubber Tyred Gantry (RTG) cranes, Optical Character Recognition (OCR), and Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV). He explained that the implementation of digital control analytics and unified dashboards can help port operators track emissions, optimize infrastructure, and plan for future needs. The Internet of Things (IoT), he noted, further supports this digital transformation by optimizing asset maintenance, electricity usage, and equipment performance.

He concluded by stressing the importance of digitalization for improving warehouse management, enhancing environmental sustainability through renewable energy integration, and driving data-driven decision-making. However, he also addressed the challenges of cybersecurity risks and the high costs associated with installing advanced IT infrastructure in ports.

The second speaker, Mr. Carles Rua, Head of Innovation at the Port of Barcelona, brought over 15 years of experience to his presentation on the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in port operations and supply chain management. Mr. Rua remarked that while AI itself is not new, the current combination of technologies is revolutionising the industry.

He shared several examples of AI implementation at the Port of Barcelona, including virtual gates that scan seals, analyse cargo, and measure volumetric characteristics using LIDAR technology at terminal entrances. Another initiative he mentioned was the introduction of autonomous and electric buses as part of the port’s innovation drive. He also highlighted the 5G Maritime project, which leverages smart cameras for smart vessel location, detecting both large and small vessels.

Throughout the webinar, Ms. Ana Rumbeu, Vice President of PLIKA, expressed her enthusiasm for the topics discussed. She underscored the importance of implementing these innovations in the field, drawing attention to the ValenciaPort Foundation’s initiative to train copilots who can lead small-scale innovations that could result in major organisational changes over time.

The event concluded with a dynamic Q&A session, where participants actively engaged with the speakers, asking insightful questions about the topics presented. The high level of interest demonstrated the relevance of these issues within the PLIKA community.

Ms. Ana Rumbeu closed the session by emphasising the importance of maintaining the strong bonds and exchanges that PLIKA members have built and how this community can continue to thrive through collaboration and shared knowledge.

PLIKA, born out of the YEP MED project, aims to serve as a collaborative platform that brings the brightest minds of the industry together.

Innovative AI Training for Port Logistics by Escola Europea

The Escola Europea has recently launched a pioneering series of courses dedicated to exploring the applications of artificial intelligence (AI) specifically within port logistics communities. This initiative underscores the institution’s commitment to integrating contemporary technological advancements into their educational repertoire.

Since its inception, the Escola Europea has been renowned for its experiential teaching approaches, ensuring that students gain practical, hands-on experience in addition to theoretical knowledge. The decision to introduce a series focused on AI applications within port logistics communities stems from the institution’s desire to keep pace with the rapidly evolving technological landscape. With AI increasingly permeating nearly all aspects of employment fields, it is essential to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills to navigate these changes effectively.

Courses Overview

The AI course series has already seen the successful organization of three insightful sessions, all focusing on port logistics communities. With each session taught by a seasoned professional, the courses offer specialized and valuable insights. The first course delved into AI applications in people management within ports, offering participants a comprehensive understanding of how AI can enhance workforce management and development in this specialized field. The second course focused on marketing and sales, demonstrating how AI tools can be leveraged to optimize marketing strategies and sales operations specific to port environments. The third session addressed AI’s role in finance and administrations in port logistics, highlighting its potential to streamline administrative processes and improve financial management within these communities.

The final course in this series, scheduled for July, will concentrate on operations within port logistics communities. This session aims to provide participants with a deep dive into the operational efficiencies that AI can bring to port logistics, from automation to predictive analytics.

The logistics sector, particularly within port communities, stands to benefit significantly from AI integration. AI technologies can enhance various aspects of logistics operations, including inventory management, shipment tracking, and predictive maintenance. By offering these specialized courses, Escola Europea is ensuring that professionals in the field are well-prepared to harness the power of AI, driving innovation and efficiency in their respective roles.

The Escola’s dedication to staying ahead of technological trends is evident in their proactive approach to education. By continuously updating and expanding their course offerings to include cutting-edge topics like AI, the organisation demonstrates its commitment to providing relevant and impactful education. This innovative course series is set to become a staple in their educational offerings, reflecting the institution’s forward-thinking ethos.

Final thoughts

“In an era where AI is not just an emerging technology but a critical component of various industries, staying informed and adept is not just beneficial—it’s imperative,” said Marta Miquel – the Chief Business Officer from the Escola Europea. As AI continues to transform various sectors, the Escola initiative to introduce AI-focused courses within port logistics communities is both timely and essential, fostering a generation of leaders ready to embrace and drive technological innovation.

John Dewey, an influential philosopher and educator, once said, “Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.” This new series of courses is a testament to Escola Europea’s enduring commitment to excellence and innovation in education, ensuring that the logistics community is well-prepared for the future.

PLIKA’s First Annual Event at SIL Strengthens Global Connections in Logistics

On the 6th of June 2024, from 17:30 to 19:00, the first annual event of PLIKA – Port Logistics International Knowledge Academy took place at the SIL Conference, representing a major advancement in the logistics and international trade sector. The event, which was held in a hybrid format, offered a platform for introducing the core values of PLIKA, presenting the newly formed committees, and highlighting the Board directors and training centre’s commitment to fostering the exchange of knowledge and experiences.

The event began with a warm welcome and inspiring words from the President, Eduard Rodés, the director of the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport, who highlighted PLIKA’s mission and the bright prospects for this community. His address was complemented by supportive messages from Vice President Ana Rumbeu, the director of training at the Valenciaport Foundation, and Vice President Alaa Morsy, Dean at the Port Training Institute and Maritime Research and Consultation Center, Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport. Their enthusiasm and dedication were evident, setting an inspiring precedent for the discussions that followed. “Seeing the enthusiasm and commitment of our founding members at this inaugural event fills me with immense pride. PLIKA is not just a network; it is a family united by a shared vision of a brighter future for logistics education and innovation,” commented Eduard Rodés as the festivities ended.

A key highlight of the event was the introduction of PLIKA’s esteemed founding and regular members. These include prominent figures such as Ms. Taheya Elsherbeny (Port Training Institute, AASTMT), Mr. Rami Seeman, Ms. Marta Miquel (Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport), Ms. Valeria Munar (Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport), Mr. Ramon Van Hall (STC Group), and Mr. Pim Oosterhoff (STC Group). Other notable members introduced were Mr. Adam Daoud from Saudi Logistics Academy, Mr. José Antonio Vásquez and Ms. Àngels Vives Serra from ILB, Mr. Jordi Font and Ms. Marisa Clavero from the Lluisa-Cura Institute, Mr. Elwyn Pitt from GMLS, Mr. Rabih Sabra from the Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture of Beirut & Mount Lebanon, Ms. Lidia Slawinska from the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport, and their dedicated PLIKERS. These individuals and their teams showed their commitment to a brighter future for the sector.

The formation of various committees dedicated to different aspects of logistics and trade was also a significant agenda of the event. These committees—Promotion, Membership, Employment, Innovation, Technological, and Academic—are set to play a crucial role in building this resilient educational collaborative network that aims to revolutionise the industry.

This inaugural event has clearly opened the doors to greater unity and collaboration among diverse participants in the sector. It provided a unique opportunity for attendees to connect, share ideas, and lay the groundwork for a strong, cooperative community. The positive outcomes and hopeful prospects resulting from this initiative have sparked curiosity and anticipation about the future steps of this collaborative educational platform.

Looking ahead, the results and aspirations stemming from this first event are very encouraging. PLIKA aims to become a cornerstone in the educational landscape of logistics and international trade, fostering a community that thrives on shared knowledge and mutual support for growth and improvement.

The Escola and Port Authority of Livorno Forge Strategic Training Partnership

The Escola is delighted to announce a new strategic collaboration between Escola Europea and the Port Authority of Livorno (Autorità di Sistema Portuale del Mar Tirreno Settentrionale – AdSP-MTS). This agreement, aimed at enhancing training and development in the maritime and logistics sectors, marks a significant milestone in our mutual efforts to promote intermodal transport and port operations. Valid for three years from the date of signing, the agreement outlines the responsibilities of both parties in coordinating and delivering its signature training programmes. The Escola will be responsible for organizing and managing the courses, ensuring the highest standards of teaching and administration. AdSP-MTS will coordinate with the Escola to establish course dates, provide necessary information to participants, and appoint representatives to oversee and support the training activities.

Commitment to Excellence in Training

The Escola Europea will collaborate closely with AdSP-MTS, an organization renowned for its extensive experience in research and training projects. Both parties recognize the critical role of professional development in enhancing the competitiveness of the port cluster. Through this agreement, we aim to develop and deliver high-quality training programs tailored to the needs of port and logistics professionals. Under this agreement, AdSP-MTS agrees to participate in key training initiatives of the Escola, including the “Rome Port Academy,” “MOST – Motorways of the Sea Training,” “Port Virtual Lab,” and “PLIKA.” These programmes will provide valuable opportunities for the exchange of knowledge and skills, benefiting terminal operators, freight forwarders, maritime agencies, and logistics companies.

Participation in MOST Italy Course

As part of our ongoing collaboration, the Port Authority of Livorno will send two of its employees to participate in our MOST Italy course this month. This participation is expected to continue in the years to come, fostering a deeper understanding of sustainable intermodal transport and enhancing the professional capabilities of port personnel.

Future Projects and Partnerships

In addition to the current initiatives, the Escola and AdSP-MTS are committed to partnering on new projects, particularly those funded by European and international programmes. This collaboration aims to further the exchange and growth of professional competencies within the port and logistics sectors.Together, we will continue to promote sustainable intermodal transport and advance the knowledge and skills essential for the future of the maritime industry.

For more information about our training programmes and upcoming initiatives, please visit our website or contact our team directly.

Pioneering AI in HR Course Sets the Stage for an Innovative Training Series

Barcelona, April 4, 2024 — A revolutionary professional course series has started with a successful session led by Miquel Ángel Mora of Talentyou.ai and organised by the Escola Europea together with the Training and Employment Group of the Port of Barcelona, focusing on the integration of Artificial Intelligence into Human Resource (HR) Management. This flagship course, the first of a four-part series, saw an impressive attendance from nearly 20 top-tier local companies, signalling significant interest in adopting AI in port-logistics people management processes.

Participants were immersed in the latest AI technologies transforming HR, covering a variety of topics such as automated resume screening, AI-driven candidate matching, unbiased recruitment processes, and employee retention analytics. The course also delved into AI’s role in enhancing employee engagement, predictive performance modelling, and building sophisticated talent management strategies.

Through collaborative workshops case studies, the attendees learned to apply AI tools in practical HR scenarios, enabling them to drive efficiency and foster a forward-thinking workplace culture.

Building on this success, the series will extend its reach to other critical business functions with the following upcoming sessions:

  • AI in Sales and Marketing: On May 27th, this course will unpack AI’s potential to personalize customer experiences, automate marketing campaigns, and analyze sales data for strategic insights, fundamentally changing the sales and marketing landscape.
  • AI in Administration and Finance: Scheduled for June 19th, professionals will explore the use of AI in streamlining administrative workflows, financial forecasting, risk management, and enhancing fiscal operations through intelligent automation.
  • AI in Operations: Slated for July 12th, this session will address how AI can be utilized to improve operational efficiencies, from optimizing logistics and inventory management to implementing smart manufacturing techniques.

The comprehensive nature of the series not only highlights the multifaceted role of AI in modern business practices but also reinforces the need for a cross-disciplinary understanding of AI capabilities to stay competitive in the evolving business environment.

Given the enthusiastic response to the HR module, future sessions are anticipated to be in high demand. We urge interested professionals to secure their spots promptly for these transformative learning experiences.

For more information on how to register and prepare for the transformative impact of AI in your business domain, follow our updates.

Escola Europea’s Global Impact and Future Vision Unveiled in Palermo during the Steering and Executive Committee

Palermo, April 2, 2024 — The Port Authority of Palermo was proud to host the first meeting of the Escola Europea’s Steering and Executive Committee for the year. The session commenced with a warm welcome from Mr. Luca Lupi, General Secretary of the Port Authority of Palermo. This was followed by an insightful presentation from Mr. Lluís Salvadó, President of the Port Authority of Barcelona, regarding the Escola Europea’s function and achievements.

In a comprehensive management report, Eduard Rodés, the Director of the Escola Europea, celebrated the institution’s successes from the previous year and presented the forecasted initiatives for 2024.

“In 2023, the Escola Europea made significant strides by welcoming over 2,600 students of 82 different nationalities and hosting 7,200 participants across 199 activities. These numbers don’t just represent growth; they symbolise the widening impact of our work on the international scene. Our commitment to providing quality education in intermodal transport is not just shaping the future of the industry but also actively contributing to the development of the Mediterranean region as a strategic logistics hub,” stated Eduard Rodés.

The report highlighted the completed projects that have placed the Escola at the forefront of maritime and logistics training, as well as the introduction of new proposals that promise to enhance the institution’s future project portfolio. Among these were the growth of the Forma’t al Port programme and the Forma’t Talent course, as well as the initiation of the Rome, Genoa, and Sicily Port Academy programmes aimed at empowering young professionals with industry-specific knowledge and skills.

Particularly noteworthy was the development and success of the pilot initiatives of Port Virtual Lab (PVL), an innovative training solution which has evolved beyond its initial purpose as a pandemic response, becoming a fundamental simulation tool that is revolutionizing educational models within the logistics and port sectors.

The collaboration with MEDports was also a focal point of discussion, as the Escola Europea has been selected to manage the association’s monthly newsletter — MED Mosaic, and to lead the inaugural MEDports Challenge, which speaks to the institution’s rising prominence and the trust placed in its capabilities by industry partners.

Escola Europea and the Northern Central Tyrrhenian Sea Port Authority host the 9th Meeting of the Technical Committee of the Transport Community

The 9th meeting of the technical committee of the Transport Community was held in the committee room of the Northern Central Tyrrhenian Sea Port Authority System (AdSP) and was organized by the Escola Europea in cooperation with the Autorità di Sistema Portuale del Mar Tirreno Centro Settentrionale – Porti di Roma e del Lazio and the Transport Community on on 29 February 2024. It welcomed representatives from the Western Balkans countries, Assoporti, and the MEDports Association.

Attendees of the 9th Technical Committee of the Transport Community in Italy

The meeting discussed the improvement of process efficiency and effectiveness in ports and gathered key stakeholders and experts from across Europe and beyond. Throughout the day, attendees explored initiatives like the Maritime Single Window and digitalization for trade streamlining. Additionally, sustainable port operations were emphasized, aligning with environmental stewardship goals. A standout moment was the presentation by Marco Muci , the Escola’s Country Manager for Italy, which provided insights into the Escola’s activities geared towards more efficient and immersive learning experiences.

To conclude our discussions, participants enjoyed a captivating study visit to the Port of Civitavecchia, gaining firsthand insights into its operations and facilities. Overall, the meeting was a success, marked by fruitful discussions and a shared dedication to advancing towards a more innovative and efficient tomorrow

“I am very proud to have hosted, at the headquarters of the entity – explained the President of AdSP Mtcs Pino Musolino – the 9th meeting of the Technical Committee of the Transport Community, an international organization dedicated to mobility and transport.”

“I wanted to emphasize – concludes the head of Molo Vespucci – how international relations and cooperation are of fundamental importance for the development of traffic, even in an area like the Balkan peninsula which is rapidly expanding, thanks to the integration of different transports, always with a careful eye on environmental protection and impact.

Escola Europea and the Northern Central Tyrrhenian Sea Port Authority Renew Their Commitment to Maritime Education

In the photo (L to R): Eduard Rodés, Director of the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport; and Pino Musolino – President of the Northern Central Tyrrhenian Sea Port Authority

In a significant development for maritime and intermodal transport education, Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport has extended its partnership with the Northern Central Tyrrhenian Sea Port Authority for an additional three years, spanning from 2024 to 2026. This renewal marks a continued commitment to the “Rome Port Academy” project, a pioneering initiative designed to educate both students and professionals about the intricacies of maritime logistics and port operations. The agreement is expected to open up numerous educational and professional development opportunities. By targeting both students pursuing maritime studies and professionals looking to enhance their skills, the program aims to cater to a wide audience interested in maritime and intermodal transport.

The Rome Port Academy project, known for its innovative approach to maritime education, serves as a bridge between theoretical knowledge and practical application. By combining classroom learning with hands-on experiences, the programme aims to prepare participants for the complexities of the maritime industry, emphasizing sustainable logistics practices and the efficient management of port operations.

A Focus on Sustainable Logistics

Sustainability remains at the forefront of this collaboration, with both Escola Europea and the Northern Central Tyrrhenian Sea Port Authority highlighting their dedication to promoting eco-friendly practices within the maritime sector. This partnership not only seeks to educate future professionals about the importance of sustainability in logistics but also aims to implement sustainable practices within the framework of the Rome Port Academy.

Educational Opportunities and Professional Development

The renewal of this partnership is seen as a crucial step in developing the next generation of maritime professionals. Through the Rome Port Academy, participants will gain a deep understanding of port operations, logistics, and the global maritime industry, equipping them with the skills necessary to navigate the challenges of the 21st century. As the partnership enters its new phase, both organisations express their enthusiasm for the future of maritime education. By continuing to invest in innovative educational projects like the Rome Port Academy, they reaffirm their commitment to shaping the future of the maritime industry, with a strong emphasis on sustainability, professional development, and operational efficiency.

The renewed collaboration between the Escola Europea and the Northern Central Tyrrhenian Sea Port Authority underscores a shared vision for advancing maritime education and fostering a new generation of professionals equipped to tackle the challenges of modern-day logistics and port management. As this partnership moves forward, the Civitavecchia maritime industry can anticipate a positive impact on both educational standards and sustainable practices within the sector.

Aragón Boosts Rail Transport in the Intermodal Logistics Chain with the SURCO Training Course

The second edition of the SURCO Aragón course concluded with total success: all offered places were filled, and there was active participation from 26 professionals from Aragón, Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia.

The SURCO courses – Simple Use of Railway Connections – delve into intermodal rail operations within ports and rail terminals, focusing on the characteristics and advantages of this type of transport. In this second edition of the SURCO Aragón training, held from February 5 to 16, 2024, between Zaragoza, Barcelona, and Perpignan, professionals from different cities of different regions gathered to share the fundamental elements of rail logistics and apply them to reality through visits to operators and by solving a practical case. On this occasion, the training was organized and created in collaboration with ALIA – the logistics cluster based in Zaragoza – and with the support of companies such as the Maritime Terminal of Zaragoza, the Port of Barcelona, VIIA, Renfe, SLISA, Aragón Logistical Platform, ADIF, and the terminals of LFP Le Perthus, Morrot, and APM Terminals.

In this edition, the 26 participating professionals from different public administrations such as the General Directorate of Transport of Aragón, Aragón Logistical Platform, and the Army; freight transport companies, freight forwarders, and import and export companies from the Aragón community, as well as others interested in the use of rail transport, were able to apply and understand the different elements necessary to offer efficient solutions through rail in the multimodal chain.

This training programme aligns with the objectives set by the European Union to promote the use of rail highways and the overall increase in train traffic, as part of a strategy to promote sustainable mobility in the region. In this context, acquiring knowledge about the different aspects related to freight rail transport is not only advantageous for students and professionals but also essential for companies involved in this sector. Therefore, the availability of educational courses and programmes with both a local and international focus, such as that offered by SURCO Aragón, is particularly relevant.

The theoretical sessions focused on key topics such as the management of rail systems, the European TEN-T, the impact of rail transport on the environment, contracting and international rail transport, and the analysis of the costs of rail transport chains.

To reinforce theoretical learning, the programme incorporated various visits to key railway infrastructures at the border between Spain and France, such as the truck rail terminal at Le Boulou by ViiA, the Maritime Terminal of Zaragoza, the ADIF PLAZA intermodal terminal, the Figueras-Perpignan line tunnel at Le Perthus, the Morrot rail terminal, the ADIF traffic control center in Zaragoza, and the APM Terminals container terminal.

The course also included a practical team project, which offered participants the opportunity to apply and fully understand the knowledge acquired during the course.

For more information about the Escola and its railway courses, please visit the SURCO section of our website.