Algeria and Spain Strengthen Port Training Cooperation through OPEN TRADE MED

/in , ,

An official Algerian Ports delegation has concluded a high-level institutional visit to Barcelona, marked by the signature of a cooperation agreement between the SERPORT Group and Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport. The agreement establishes a framework for long-term collaboration in training, capacity building and technical cooperation in the fields of ports, logistics, transport and international trade.

The cooperation agreement was signed by Mr. Hedjal Ryad, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the SERPORT Group, on behalf of the Algerian port authority, and by representatives of Escola Europea, formalising a shared commitment to strengthening professional skills and institutional cooperation between Algeria and Spain. The signing ceremony took place at the headquarters of Escola Europea in the presence of Mr. José Alberto Carbonell, President of the Port of Barcelona and President of the Escola Europea, and Mr. Eduard Rodés, Director of Escola Europea.

Mr. Hedjal Ryad, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of SERPORT Group; Mr. José Alberto Carbonell, President of the Port of Barcelona; and Mr. Eduard Rodés, Director of Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport

The agreement was signed within the framework of the OPEN TRADE MED project (Operations and Procedures for Employment and Networking for Trade in the Mediterranean), a regional initiative supported by the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) and aligned with the strategic priorities of the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM).
The pilot phase of OPEN TRADE MED will initially involve the ports of Algiers (Algeria) and Tripoli (Lebanon), with a view to progressive expansion to other Mediterranean port-logistics communities.

A partnership focused on skills, sustainability and employability

The agreement reflects a shared vision to reinforce human capital across Mediterranean port-logistics communities, with a particular focus on youth employability, digitalisation, sustainability and intermodal transport solutions. Through this partnership, SERPORT and Escola Europea will jointly develop training programmes, pilot actions and knowledge-exchange initiatives, while facilitating the integration of Algerian ports and training centres into wider Euro-Mediterranean cooperation networks.

At the core of this collaboration lies the OPEN TRADE MED project, a multi-year regional programme designed to equip students, teachers and professionals with practical, employment-oriented skills for sustainable international trade. The project combines training-of-trainers schemes, applied learning methodologies and digital simulation tools, notably through the Port Virtual Lab, bridging the gap between education and real-world port and logistics operations.

OPEN TRADE MED is being implemented across nine Mediterranean countries and ten port-logistics communities, promoting ethical decision-making, gender equality and environmentally responsible transport practices such as short sea shipping and intermodal logistics. By bringing together education providers, port authorities and international institutions, the project aims to strengthen regional connectivity and support the development of resilient and competitive Mediterranean trade systems.

Institutional dialogue at the heart of Euro-Mediterranean cooperation

Beyond the signing of the agreement, the visit provided an opportunity to deepen institutional dialogue between Algerian and European stakeholders. The delegation held meetings with key Euro-Mediterranean organisations, including the Union for the Mediterranean and IEMed, to exchange views on regional integration, sustainable development and the strategic role of ports as drivers of economic growth and qualified employment.

The programme also included an institutional maritime visit to the Port of Barcelona, offering first-hand insights into port governance, intermodal connectivity, digital innovation and sustainability strategies.

A long-term commitment

With the signature of this agreement, SERPORT Group and Escola Europea reaffirm their commitment to long-term Euro-Mediterranean cooperation, placing education, innovation and sustainability at the centre of port and logistics development. The partnership represents a concrete step towards stronger institutional ties between Algeria and Spain, and towards a more connected, skilled and sustainable Mediterranean region.

About the OPEN TRADE MED (Operations and Procedures for Employment and Networking for Trade in the Mediterranean)

What is OPEN TRADE MED?

OPEN TRADE MED is a regional cooperation project aimed at strengthening skills, employability and sustainable practices in international trade, transport and logistics across the Mediterranean. The project focuses on bridging the gap between education and real-world port and logistics operations.

Objectives

  • Strengthen employment-oriented training in ports, logistics and international trade
  • Improve youth employability and professional skills in Mediterranean countries
  • Promote sustainable and intermodal transport solutions
  • Foster digitalisation and innovation in trade and logistics education
  • Ensure gender equality and inclusive participation

Geographical Scope

  • 9 Mediterranean countries
  • 10 port-logistics communities
  • Involvement of vocational, occupational and higher-education training centres

Key Target Groups

  • Students and young professionals
  • Teachers and trainers (training-of-trainers approach)
  • Port and logistics professionals
  • Training institutions and port authorities

Key Components

  • Training-of-Trainers programmes to build local teaching capacity
  • Applied training courses in international trade, transport and logistics
  • Digital simulation tools, notably the Port Virtual Lab, enabling participants to work with realistic port, transport and trade scenarios
  • Pilot actions and local courses adapted to each port-logistics community
  • Networking and institutional cooperation at Euro-Mediterranean level

Core Themes

  • Sustainable logistics and transport
  • Intermodality and short sea shipping
  • Digitalisation and smart mobility
  • Ethical decision-making and governance
  • Gender equality and youth inclusion

Institutional Framework

  • Supported by the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID)
  • Aligned with the priorities of the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM)
  • Implemented in cooperation with port authorities, training institutions and international organisations

Expected Impact

  • Strengthened professional skills across Mediterranean port-logistics communities
  • Improved employability and access to quality jobs
  • Enhanced regional cooperation and connectivity
  • Greater adoption of sustainable and digital logistics practices

Project Leader

  • Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport

YEP MED by the Escola Europea wins the WestMED Best Project 2025 Award in Tunis

/in , , , ,

On the 28th of November, the YEP MED – Young Employment in Ports of the Mediterranean project, led by the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport, received the prestigious WestMED Best Project 2025 Award in the category of Blue Skills & Ocean Literacy during the ceremony held in Tunis. This award recognises Mediterranean initiatives that significantly contribute to the development of blue skills and ocean literacy.

Alessia Mastromattei, Country Manager for Italy, and Marta Miquel, Deputy Director General, accepted the award on behalf of the Escola Europea.

The ceremony took place within the framework of the 5th WestMED Stakeholder Conference (WestMED Conference 2025), organised by the WestMED Blue Economy Initiative and supported by the European Commission through the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA) on behalf of DG MARE. The event gathered key regional actors to advance cooperation, innovation, and sustainable development across the Mediterranean.

Funded by the ENI CBC MED programme of the European Union, YEP MED has transformed the way young people, teachers, and professionals access maritime and port training. The project was particularly recognised for democratizing education through innovative tools such as the Port Virtual Lab, an immersive platform that allows users to simulate real port logistics chain operations. This hands-on methodology has helped develop essential skills related to digitalisation, sustainability, environmental management, international trade, and teamwork.

YEP MED connected eight Mediterranean ports – including Barcelona, Valencia, Marseille, Rome, Tunis, Beirut, Damietta, and Aqaba – creating an active collaborative network that has boosted youth talent in the port and logistics sectors. Thanks to this joint effort, the project achieved remarkable impact: 3,683 trained students, 161 courses delivered, 72 trainers trained, and over 1,093 internships and job placements across 514 companies, ensuring gender-balanced participation throughout.

Although the project officially concluded in 2023, YEP MED remains alive through the work of PLIKA – Port Logistics International Knowledge Academy, which continues to strengthen and expand the community created by the initiative. A recent example is PLIKA’s participation in the Mediterranean Day event on 27 November, where regional stakeholders exchanged experiences and reaffirmed their commitment to blue education and sustainable maritime economies.

Receiving the WestMED award reinforces YEP MED’s position as a regional benchmark in training, port cooperation, and blue talent development, demonstrating that transnational collaboration can generate long-lasting and replicable results across the Mediterranean basin.

The WestMED Stakeholder Conference 2025, where the recognition was presented, brought together government representatives, academic institutions, ports, companies, and international organisations from across the region. The event focused on strategic areas of the blue economy – including energy transition, sustainable aquaculture, maritime spatial planning, and especially training and blue skills – and served as a key platform to foster new synergies and projects that support the sustainable development of the Mediterranean.

Port Professionals Unite for Innovation and Immersive Learning at the PLIKA II Annual Event

/in , , ,

The Port Logistics International Knowledge Academy (PLIKA) marked a major milestone with its II Annual Event, titled “Growing Together: A PLIKA Simulation Experience,” held on the 18th of June 2025 in Barcelona and online. Hosted by Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport, the event gathered professionals, educators, and innovators from the Mediterranean’s port logistics ecosystem and beyond to celebrate progress, share insights, and experience the future of immersive learning through the Port Virtual Lab (PVL) Flash simulation.

Founded with the mission to connect port professionals, promote international collaboration, and foster continuous education through digital tools, PLIKA has become a thriving community of practice, counting 66+ members across institutions and regions, including recent additions like SAMK University of Applied Sciences (Finland) and the Port Network Authority of the Northern Tyrrhenian Sea (Italy).

Simulation as a Bridge Between Learning and Real-World Complexity

At the heart of the day’s activities was the Port Virtual Lab Flash challenge-an interactive, gamified simulation designed to mirror real-world logistics decision-making. In this edition, participants were grouped into teams and challenged to compare multimodal transport solutions for delivering a CNC milling machine from Cairo, Egypt to Bari, Italy, taking into account cost, CO₂ emissions, and delivery time.

Using PVL’s immersive interface, participants evaluated sea, air, and combined transport routes by working with realistic data from simulated freight companies such as Playforwarding Barcelona, inspired by real-world freight forwarders. The scenario tested not only technical logistics knowledge but also decision-making under pressure, critical thinking, and teamwork.

The simulation concluded with a competitive debrief, analysis of the top-performing teams, and the announcement of the winning group by Mr. Abdessalam Obeidat (Aqaba Development Corporation), followed by final reflections from Mr. Rabih Sabra (Chamber of Commerce, Beirut) and Ms. Taheya Elsherbeny (Port Training Institute, AASTMT).

The event opened with a warm welcome from Mr. Eduard Rodés, President of PLIKA and Director of Escola Europea, who emphasized the academy’s commitment to innovation and inclusive education. Prof. Alaa Morsy, Vice President of PLIKA, highlighted how the community is growing stronger through regional engagement and partnerships with maritime and academic institutions.

Ms. Ana Rumbeu, Director of Training at Fundación Valenciaport and PLIKA Vice President, delivered a forward-looking presentation on the evolution of training frameworks in logistics and the skills required in the face of automation, digitalisation, and global shifts.

“Every new relationship we build here brings us closer to transforming the port logistics industry and leading change. Together, we can achieve great things” – Ana Rumbeu, Fundación Valenciaport

Meanwhile, Ms. Valeria Munar, PLIKA Community Builder at Escola Europea, showcased the growing momentum of PLIKA initiatives-from newsletters and monthly “Words of the Month” to the highly successful PLIKERS Innovation Hackathon and webinars on AI and Mediterranean cooperation.

What’s Next for PLIKA?

“Today’s event was a true celebration of the spirit of collaboration, learning, and community that defines PLIKA. It reflected the richness of diverse perspectives and shared values across the borders of the Euro-Mediterranean region.”

– Rabih Sabra, Director General – Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture of Beirut & Mount Lebanon

Looking ahead, PLIKA aims to expand its reach through more collaborative simulations, new learning modules powered by PVL-including rail and air freight-and a stronger presence in the Mediterranean and global South. Plans are already underway for the 2026 edition of the Annual Event, with a continued focus on bridging education, simulation, and sustainable logistics .By democratizing access to experiential learning, PLIKA continues to empower a new generation of logistics professionals-ready to lead with competence, confidence, and collaboration.

Mediterranean Green Shipping Network: Linking Ports, Industries, Investment and Innovation for Monitoring and Technology Foresight on Green Shipping in the Mediterranean.

Green Marine Med Final Summits Coming to Barcelona This July

/in , ,

On 2–3 July 2025, the Green Marine Med project, co-funded by the EMFAF programme of the European Union, will host its Final Summits in Barcelona—and Escola Europea is proud to be among the organising partners.

Mediterranean Green Shipping Network: Linking Ports, Industries, Investment and Innovation for Monitoring and Technology Foresight on Green Shipping in the Mediterranean.

These summits mark the conclusion of the Green Marine Med project, an initiative co-funded by the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF), aimed at accelerating the green and digital transition of Mediterranean ports. The events will bring together stakeholders from across the region, including maritime authorities, innovators, investors, port professionals, and policymakers:

  • Day 1 – Innovation Summit (2 July):
    The first day will focus on the role of decarbonisation, digitalisation, and data in shaping the future of port ecosystems. Discussions will cover the latest technological trends and how to scale green solutions in the shipping and logistics sectors.
  • Day 2 – Finance Summit (3 July):
    The second day will explore the investment landscape for sustainable maritime projects. Key topics include funding instruments, public-private partnerships, and what makes a maritime project truly bankable.

Escola Europea will contribute insights on training, simulation tools, and upskilling strategies, with a focus on preparing the workforce for the evolving needs of sustainable port operations.

Participation in the summits is free of charge, but spaces are limited and subject to confirmation. Priority will be given to professionals working in maritime innovation, policy, or finance.

Interested in participating? You can register for the Green Marine Med Summit here: https://lu.ma/gam8p44b

You can also view the official announcement and draft agenda on LinkedIn.

This is a unique opportunity to connect with key players shaping the future of green shipping in the Mediterranean.

YEP MED Featured in Interreg’s 2025 Brochure on Transnational Cooperation

/in , , ,

We’re happy to announce that the YEP MED project has been featured in the latest official Interreg publication titled “Fostering collaboration beyond borders: discover the power of Interreg transnational cooperation.”

Published in March 2025, this comprehensive brochure highlights 13 outstanding initiatives from across Europe and its neighbouring regions. Each featured project was chosen to represent one of the Interreg cooperation programmes. YEP MED—Youth Employment in Ports of the Mediterranean—was selected as the flagship example for Interreg NEXT MED, underscoring its success in creating opportunities for young people in the Mediterranean logistics sector.

The article, found on page 13 of the digital flipbook, showcases YEP MED’s unique approach to enhancing youth employability through practical training, digital innovation, and cross-border collaboration. The project brings together public authorities, educational institutions, and private companies to address skills gaps in the port and logistics industry—contributing to a more connected, inclusive, and competitive region.

YEP MED’s recognition by Interreg is a testament to the dedication of its partners across multiple countries and the tangible impact the programme has had on students and jobseekers. It also reflects the power of transnational cooperation in solving regional challenges through shared knowledge, coordinated actions, and mutual support.

You can view the full brochure online here (YEP MED is on page 13): Fostering collaboration beyond borders.

Through initiatives like YEP MED, Escola Europea continues its mission to promote sustainable transport and professional development across the Mediterranean. Stay tuned for more project updates and success stories that reflect our commitment to quality education and cooperation.

Innovative Simulator Demonstrated during Energy Transition in Ports Course, Driving Sustainable Maritime Solutions

/in , , , ,

Barcelona, December 3, 2024 – The Escola Europea has successfully concluded its Energy Transition in Ports: Build Your Port Energy Transition Plan course, organized under the umbrella of the GREEN MARINE MED project, an initiative co-financed by the European Union focused on promoting energy transition plans in Mediterranean ports. The EU funding allowed the course to be fully subsidized, providing an unparalleled opportunity for global industry professionals to engage in advancing sustainability in port operations.

Held from November 18–28, 2024, the hybrid programme combined online learning, immersive in-person workshops, and cutting-edge technology. The course culminated in the practical piloting of the new simulator, developed by the Escola Europea in collaboration with Portwise, which brought intermodal logistics and sustainable strategies to life.

Piloting Innovation: The Simulator

A highlight of the course was the presentation of the prototype of Escola Europea’s Port Energy Transition Simulator, which is currently under development. During the in-person sessions in Barcelona, this innovative tool was used to support the resolution of a practical case study. The simulator provided valuable insights into energy transition planning for ports, and it is expected that in the next edition of the course, the practical case study will be developed entirely using the simulator, offering an even more immersive and comprehensive learning experience.

“This training provided us with important insights into how users interact with the tool and what they expect from it,” said Eduard Rodés, Director of Escola Europea. “These lessons will be instrumental in completing the development of the simulator during the remaining months of the Green Marine Med project, ensuring it is fully aligned with the real needs of ports in their energy transition efforts.”

The Escola Europea has already been successfully using another simulator in its courses— Port Virtual Lab, a tool that gamifies the learning experience by allowing participants to carry out transport operations within a fully virtual port community.

Course Overview and Highlights

The course began with a week of online lectures featuring leading experts in decarbonization, renewable energy, and digitalization for emissions control. The second week, held in Barcelona, offered practical workshops, site visits to key port facilities, and hands-on exercises using the simulator. Participants from over 20 countries joined the training, contributing to its diverse and enriching learning environment. Representatives came from Spain, Italy, Morocco, France, the United States, Sri Lanka, Lebanon, Peru, Mauritania, and the United Kingdom, among others. Esteemed organizations such as MEDports Association, the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Port de Barcelona, OCP Solutions, Eurogate Tanger, Ports of Genoa, Fundación Valenciaport, Cellnex Telecom, and the Polytechnic University of Valencia were among those represented. This international and multi-sectoral collaboration added invaluable perspectives, fostering innovative discussions on energy transition strategies and solutions for port operations.

Participants had the opportunity to visit facilities such as container terminals, LNG refuelling sites, hydrogen infrastructure, and OPS (Onshore Power Supply) installations, gaining valuable insights into the latest sustainable technologies transforming the maritime industry.

Empowering Professionals for a Greener Future

As part of the course, participants developed their own Port Energy Transition Plans, blending insights from global experts, practical site visits, and the simulator. These plans aim to address the specific sustainability challenges faced by their ports and organizations. With representatives from more than 10 countries, the course fostered international collaboration and the exchange of best practices. This edition marked a milestone in advancing the goals of the Green Marine Med project.

The Escola Europea plans to build on this success with future editions of the course, offering professionals cutting-edge tools and knowledge to lead the energy transition in ports.

Navigating the Future of Sustainable Ports: An Interview with Alexandre Ariza

/in , ,
Alexandre Ariza

Alexandre Ariza, Academic Manager of the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport

This month, we bring you closer to expert perspectives on environmental transitions in the port and maritime logistics sectors. We had the opportunity to sit down with Alexandre Ariza, the Escola’s Academic Manager and lead on our environmental simulator for ports, to discuss the latest trends, challenges, and strategies for adapting to a greener future.

Q. What trends are you seeing in environmental transitions within the port and maritime logistics sectors?

A: In recent years, there has been a clear shift toward decarbonization in ports and the maritime sector, driven by international regulations and the objectives set by the European Commission’s 2030 Fit for 55 plan and the Green Deal 2050. These initiatives aim for a 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and climate neutrality by 2050. Key trends include the electrification of port operations, the adoption of alternative fuels such as hydrogen and liquefied natural gas (LNG), and the implementation of digital technologies to optimize energy efficiency.

Another critical aspect of decarbonization, aligned with the European Commission’s strategy, is intermodality. Reducing truck use by maximizing rail and sea highways is essential. Ports are key intermodal hubs, and improving the flow of goods through rail connections and short sea shipping to other ports is crucial. However, one of the major challenges is that there is no clear commitment to a single alternative fuel, and developing multiple options is extremely costly. While technologies like hydrogen are promising, they are still under development, meaning we must start the transition with options that, while not perfect, are more immediately implementable.

Q. What are some of the biggest challenges in making ports greener?

A: One of the biggest challenges is financing the energy transition. The upfront costs of adopting green technologies, such as electrification or alternative fuels, are high, and many port facilities rely on outdated equipment that is difficult to upgrade. Additionally, there is no clear consensus on which alternative fuel will be the standard in the long term. Technologies like hydrogen and ammonia are still in early stages and present technical and economic barriers. However, we cannot wait for perfect solutions; we must begin with currently available technologies.

Furthermore, improving intermodal transport systems is a major challenge. Ports need to optimize their rail and sea connections to minimize truck transport, aligning with the goals of the European Commission. Collaboration across the entire logistics chain and financial incentives will be crucial to achieving these goals without sacrificing operational efficiency.

Q. How can professionals in the industry adapt to these changes?

The transition to more sustainable port operations is a complex process, especially since day-to-day operations remain a priority. Nevertheless, this change is inevitable and represents a costly long-term investment in initiatives such as the circular economy and new fuel supply systems.

A key strategy is to provide continuous training to current professionals, focusing on new energy technologies and their operational implications. Training in the management of refuelling stations for alternative fuels and the logistical planning of green corridors is essential to ensure that professionals can adapt without losing operational efficiency.

Moreover, enhancing intermodal capabilities by improving rail and sea highway connections is crucial. Training professionals to manage these systems effectively and plan for their integration into port operations will be key to achieving more sustainable logistics and reducing the carbon footprint of transportation.

Q: Can you tell us about the realistic game simulations you’re working on under the Green Marine Med Project?

The simulator we are developing under the Green Marine Med Project, in collaboration with PortWise, aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the various variables that influence the strategy for planning an energy transition in a port. Unlike a digital twin, which focuses on analyzing and controlling operational decisions or evaluating real-world scenarios, our simulator enables professionals to grasp how different factors interact and affect the energy transition holistically.

This helps to create more informed and strategic planning, allowing port professionals to identify best practices and anticipate challenges in the transition toward more sustainable operations.

Q: What skills will be important for professionals working in sustainable ports?

In a greener and more sustainable port, key competencies will include a solid understanding of new energy technologies, such as electric systems and alternative fuel management, as well as data analysis skills to optimize operations. Digital competencies, particularly in the use of energy management and monitoring systems, will also be essential.

In addition, the ability to manage energy transition projects and collaborate across sectors with regulators, energy suppliers, and customers will be critical to ensuring a smooth transition to more sustainable operations. Improving intermodal transport systems, such as rail and sea highways, will also require professionals to develop logistics planning skills that align with the EU’s Fit for 55 and Green Deal 2050 objectives.

Mediterranean Green Shipping Network: Linking Ports, Industries, Investment and Innovation for Monitoring and Technology Foresight on Green Shipping in the Mediterranean.

Escola Europea and Portwise sign a collaboration agreement to develop a serious game / simulator on energy transition plans in ports

/in , ,

Barcelona, August 27, 2024 – The Escola Europea and Portwise have signed an agreement to jointly develop an innovative serious game / simulator as part of the GREEN MARINE MED project, an initiative co-financed by the European Union focused on promoting energy transition plans in Mediterranean ports.

Mediterranean Green Shipping Network: Linking Ports, Industries, Investment and Innovation for Monitoring and Technology Foresight on Green Shipping in the Mediterranean.

The Escola Europea will lead the development of the simulator, while Portwise, with its expertise in terminal logistics consulting and simulation, will provide technical support in calculations and modelling. The objective is to create a simulator that balances realism and simplicity, allowing participants to make strategic decisions in implementing energy transition plans in ports within a competitive and environmentally responsible framework.

This agreement also opens a broader framework for collaboration between both institutions for future projects and training activities in the port, sustainability, and simulation sectors. Both organizations reaffirm their commitment to continuous improvement in the logistics sector and to creating more efficient and environmentally friendly solutions.

The GREEN MARINE MED project unites the Mediterranean Green Shipping Network, representing the full value chain, including vessel communities, ports, marinas, fuel and energy sectors, finance, investment, innovation, and other stakeholders. This Network forms the foundation for a comprehensive Monitoring and Technology Foresight on Mediterranean Green Shipping. Through the project’s unique accelerators and business support programmes, Green Shipping entrepreneurs and start-ups in the region will be empowered. The project has a budget of €1.1 million, with an 80% contribution from the European Union.

Portwise, originally part of TBA Group, is a world leader in consultancy and simulation for terminal logistics, with a focus on global efficiency and sustainability.

This project not only aims to foster learning but also to prepare participants for future challenges in implementing energy transition plans in ports.x

For more information, please contact: Alex Ariza ([email protected]).

 

 

 

This project has received funding from the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund under the EMFAF-2023-PIA-FLAGSHIP Call- Agreement No.: 101124818. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Research Executive Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. 

Participants of the first Training of Trainers going Digital course of PVL in Tunis - July 2024

Port Virtual Lab takes the Training of Trainers course to new heights

/in , , ,

The special edition of the Training of Trainers: Going Digital course of Port Virtual Lab was recently concluded, marking a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to enhance industry skills and knowledge. The course, held from the 1st to the 4th of July 2024, brought together representatives from leading training centers, providing a platform for in-depth learning and professional development.

Participants of the first Training of Trainers going Digital course of PVL in Tunis - July 2024

During the training, participants engaged with the Port Virtual Lab (PVL) universe and the Click and Cargo platform, gaining a comprehensive understanding of its features and applications. The hands-on sessions enabled attendees to explore the platform’s capabilities in managing port logistics and operations, demonstrating its potential to streamline processes and improve operational efficiency in a simulated environment. It gave them the opportunity to visualise what it would be like to use the tool as an aide in their training centres, and help prepare the students for the real-life operations and challenges of transport operations planning.

A key highlight of the event was the networking opportunities it afforded. Representatives from various training centers and industry professionals exchanged insights, best practices, and innovative ideas, fostering a collaborative environment that is essential for the advancement of the sector. These interactions are expected to lead to stronger partnerships and future collaborations.

The course also featured expert-led discussions and practical exercises designed to equip participants with the skills necessary to implement the PVL platform in their respective organisations. Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing appreciation for the detailed and practical nature of the training.

Looking forward, the Escola Europea is committed to organising more training sessions that will further promote the adoption of innovative tools like the the PVL platform. These future courses will continue to support industry professionals in staying ahead of technological advancements, thereby contributing to the overall growth and modernisation of port logistics.

Check out the video summarising the highlights of the course, and get in touch if you’d like to know more about the platform and it’s capabilities:

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

/in , , ,

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.