Tag Archive for: PLIKA

Port Virtual Lab

Port Virtual Lab: Empowering Logistics Professionals Worldwide

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The Escola Europea is thrilled to announce the resounding success and international expansion of its Port Virtual Lab (PVL) training platform. Since its inception, this innovative educational initiative has transformed the landscape of port logistics education and created waves of opportunity for students and professionals worldwide.

Port Virtual Lab

In November 2023, the Port Virtual Lab will embark on yet another exciting journey, uniting with the Autonomous University in Barcelona (UAB) – our newest partner. This collaboration represents a significant milestone, bringing the PVL’s immersive learning experience to an even broader audience. The UAB is the second Barcelona university to put their faith in the Escola’s turn, incorporating the platform into their programmes, and ensuring that what they teach truly prepares their students for on-the-job demands of the logistics world. This follows the strategic partnership forged with the STC Group in Rotterdam. This alliance not only bolstered the PVL’s reputation but also marked a pivotal moment in the internationalization of the course. STC Group, a distinguished training provider in the bustling port of Rotterdam, added its considerable expertise to the PVL, making it a force to be reckoned with in the logistics education sphere.

Expanding Horizons: The Saudi Logistics Academy Partnership

The Saudi Logistics Academy’s reputation as a hub of logistics excellence in the Middle East is well-established. This month, our team travelled to Saudi Arabia to participate in the first edition of the Sustainable Maritime Industry Conference (SMIC) in Jeddah, organized by the Transport General Authority (TGA) and the Saudi Arabia Government. It was an event dedicated to shaping the future of the maritime industry in the region. During the event, we have discussed ways that we could leverage our innovative platform’s capabilities to nurture a new generation of logistics talent in the region, whilst nurturing trade and networking capabilities between the Mediterranean and the Middle East through education – which resulted in our signing of collaboration agreements to work together in initiatives like PVL and PLIKA – the Port Logistics International Knowledge Academy.

Escola team with Mr. Kitack Lim from the IMO

From left to right: Eduard Rodés (director, Escola Europea), Kitack Lim (secretary general, IMO) and Marco Muci (country manager, Escola Europea)

This partnership will introduce PVL’s dynamic, real-life port community simulation to Saudi Arabia, allowing participants to delve into the intricacies of international trade operations in a controlled yet authentic environment. It will bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, equipping logistics professionals with the skills they need to excel in a rapidly evolving industry.

A Global Impact in the Making

As discussions with the Saudi Logistics Training Centre progress, the Port Virtual Lab’s influence will extend far beyond the European borders where it first began. This expansion signifies not only the PVL’s global recognition but also its commitment to shaping the future of logistics education worldwide. With each new partnership, the Port Virtual Lab reinforces its mission to address critical skills gaps in the transport and logistics sector on a global scale. It’s a testament to the power of virtual simulators in preparing young professionals for the challenges of the industry, regardless of geographical boundaries.

Port Virtual Lab: Bridging Real-world Skills and Virtual Innovation

The Port Virtual Lab is more than just an educational platform; it’s a gateway to the future of logistics training. At its core, PVL offers a dynamic, real-life port community simulation, enabling participants to immerse themselves in a controlled yet authentic environment. It’s here that they can conduct simulated international trade operations, honing their skills in logistics, transport, and international trade. Over the past 3 years, the PVL has trained 3000 students, expanding its reach and impact.

With 23 simulated companies within a digital port community system, PVL sets the stage for an unparalleled learning experience. The platform’s crown jewel, the pilot freight forwarder module developed with the support of Click&Cargo, allows participants to engage in near-real-life import and export operations. These simulations provide participants with real-life contracts and up-to-date information, ensuring that learning is not just theoretical but truly experiential.

YEP MED in Egypt celebrates success to empower young people in the Mediterranean port sector

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YEP MED’s closing ceremony highlights the project’s significant achievements, including the adaptation of eight training courses, training 72 teachers, and conducting 161 courses that trained nearly 3,700 young people, the YEP MED Talent Programme, and the World Port Sustainability Program (WPSP) successful submission.

The YEP MED project, an innovative initiative aimed at empowering young people , particularly NEETs (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) and women, in the Mediterranean port and logistics sectors, successfully concluded its journey with the YEP MED final conference & Steering Committee held on July 24th – 25th, 2023, at the Steigenberger Hotel El Lessan in Damietta, Egypt.

The two-day event united delegates from partner organizations alongside individuals associated with collaborating institutions, YEP MED trainees, and companies. The opening session commenced with welcoming remarks from key figures such as Rear Admiral Ahmed Hawash, Chairman of Damietta Port Authority, and Mr. Eduard Rodés, the CEO of the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport. The session continued with thought-provoking keynote addresses from prominent figures like Dr. Esmat AlKaradsheh, representing ENI CBC MED Programme, Admiral Dr. Refeeq Galal, Chairman of Damietta for Container Handling Co. (DCHC), Prof Ismail Abdel Ghafar Ismail Farag, President of the Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport, which was presented on his behalf by Prof Akram Soliman Elselmy, and Rear Admiral Reda Ismail, Head of the Egyptian Maritime Sector.

The first session started with a presentation of YEP MED global results and YEP MED Talent by Mr. Eduard Rodés and Ms. Marta Miquel, respectively, shed light on the project’s significant achievements, which included adapting 8training courses, training 72 teachers, and conducting 161 training sessions. This resulted in the training of nearly 3,700 young individuals and women, with a remarkable 47% representation of women and 53% for men, contributing to gender balance in the workforce. The average participant age of thirty reflects the project’s focus on empowering young individuals at a crucial stage in their lives. Moreover, the project enabled approximately 1,100 internships and job placements, forging collaborations with over 250 companies across the seven countries represented.  This was followed by a presentation made by Prof Akram Soliman Elslemy,  YEP MED project manager at the Arab Academy for Science Technology and Maritime Transport (AASTMT) and Dean of the College of Engineering and Technology, which highlighted the project’s results that exceeded expectations on all levels. Each partner was then able to present their contributions, with speeches by Ms. Mar Marzo from Valenciaport Foundation (Spain), Mr. Rabieh Sabra, the president of the Beirut Chamber of Commerce in Lebanon, Mr. Jobrane Ben Mansour, OMMP (Tunisia), Mr. Husain Al-Safadi, the Chairman of the Aqaba Development Corporation through a remote connection) from Jordan.  Finally, the testimonial of Dr. Ahmed Kamel – DCHC, Trainer at YEP MED Egypt closed this part of the event.

The second session discussed the future of the project and included a presentation about the newly created PLIKA (Port Logistics International Knowledge Academy) was presented by Orlando Reveco from Escola Europea – shedding light on the legacies that YEP MED will leave behind upon its completion.  Then Prof. Alaa Morsy, YEP MED project coordinator at AASTMT, discussed the project’s sustainability and future.  The Session ended up with the signing ceremony for the PLIKA initiative (Port Logistics International Knowledge Academy) – an organisation created out of the work done by the training institutes during the YEP MED project.

The conference ended with the testimonials from trainees of the YEP MED in Egypt and the awarding ceremony for the esteemed partners, YEP MED students, and local companies that participated in the trainees’ internship and employment.

On the second day of the gathering, the YEP MED Steering Committee took place. Partners were able to discuss the future of cooperation, project sustainability, and the project’s closure. The day began with a warm official welcome from Damietta Port Authority, followed by a welcome note from Mr. Eduard Rodés. During the Committee meeting, topics such as the progress of activities, reporting, and payments to partners were discussed by representatives from the Escola Europea and Mes Advocats (Paula Baltar, Reyes Durá, and Gerard Navarro respectively) provided updates on the project’s financial management and the handling of minor amendments.

Dr. Esmat Karadsheh from ENI CBC MED delivered an informative training session on project closure guidelines, and the participants engaged in an open discussion on the YEP MED Final Report guidelines and dates. The event concluded with closing remarks and a visit to Damietta Port, offering participants an opportunity to witness the tangible impact of the YEP MED project first-hand.

Eduard Rodes, the director of the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport and lead beneficiary of the project, expressed his gratitude and pride during the opening ceremony: “ The YEP MED project stands as a testament to what can be achieved when we come together with a shared vision for education and youth empowerment.” As the project drew to a close, the YEP MED final conference & Steering Committee served as a moment of reflection, celebration, and inspiration for the future. The project has proven that together, a stronger and more interconnected society can be built, where challenges are overcome with determination and cooperation.

PLIKA: Transforming Port Communities through Innovative Training and Collaboration

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Introduction

The birth of the Port Logistics International Knowledge Academy (PLIKA) can be attributed to the imperative of adapting and innovating in the face of the challenges brought about by the global pandemic in 2020. Amidst these unprecedented circumstances, the YEP MED project emerged, shedding light on the demand for novel methodologies and solutions to provide remote training within an international framework. It was within this backdrop that the Port Virtual Lab was conceived, a ground-breaking simulation platform that revolutionized the landscape of international trade operations.

The pandemic brought forth various restrictions and limitations that disrupted traditional training methods and hindered international collaboration. Recognizing this challenge, the YEP MED project team sought to create an innovative solution that would transcend physical barriers and enable remote learning and collaboration. The solution came from the hand of Port Virtual Lab; conceived as a groundbreaking platform that allowed students to engage in international trade operations by exchanging simulated operations with teams from different countries and ports. This virtual environment transformed the way operations were conducted, innovating on the traditional approach and introducing a new level of interconnectivity and collaboration.

Advancements in technology facilitated the seamless integration of participants from diverse backgrounds and locations. Port Virtual Lab provided a realistic and immersive experience, enabling students to navigate the complexities of international trade operations, exchange information, and make informed decisions in a risk-free environment. This became the key to success – making sure that the students that passed through our doors got real hands-on experiences that would help them flourish once they have found employment.

Enhanced Collaboration

The platform fostered collaboration between teams from different countries and ports, transcending geographical boundaries. Participants were able to work together, exchange knowledge, and gain insights from diverse perspectives, resulting in enriched learning experiences. The need to interact with students from other cultures, in different time zones, and with diverse perspectives greatly enriched the work and interpersonal skills of participants. I count both students and instructors in this group. These intercultural exchanges provided a unique learning experience, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of different perspectives, customs, and practices. It broadened participants’ horizons, enabling them to develop cultural intelligence and adaptability, crucial skills in today’s interconnected world.

They learned to be flexible, accommodating varying schedules and finding ways to collaborate effectively despite geographical constraints. Moreover, the interaction with students and instructors from different cultures enhanced participants’ interpersonal skills. They developed cross-cultural communication skills, learned to navigate cultural nuances, and built strong relationships based on respect and understanding. These interpersonal skills are invaluable in a globalized world, where effective communication and collaboration across cultural boundaries are essential.

Realistic Simulation

Port Virtual Lab provided a realistic environment where participants could engage in simulated trade operations. This immersive experience allowed them to develop practical skills, make informed decisions, and understand the intricacies of international trade. This also served as a practical solution for students who were unable to participate in on-site internships due to pandemic-related restrictions. Many companies were hesitant to allow external individuals access to their facilities, making it challenging for students to gain hands-on experience.

Port Virtual Lab’s simulation capabilities proved to be a game-changer in this regard. By immersing students in simulated trade operations, Port Virtual Lab offered a viable alternative to traditional internships. Students were able to engage in practical exercises, familiarize themselves with essential ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) software, and gain a comprehensive understanding of basic operational procedures. This not only facilitated their learning but also enabled them to acquire valuable industry-specific skills.

The results of this approach have been remarkable. Companies have recognized the value of students’ experience with the simulation platform and now actively seek interns who have been trained using Port Virtual Lab. This shift in attitude is primarily driven by the time and resources saved by companies. By having interns who are already familiar with the operations and workflows through the simulator, companies can streamline the onboarding process and minimize the need for internal staff to dedicate extensive time to training basic operations.

Furthermore, the Port Virtual Lab’s simulation experience provides a level of consistency and standardization in training. Students from different educational institutions or backgrounds receive the same fundamental knowledge and skill set, ensuring a common baseline of expertise. This standardization not only benefits the companies employing interns but also enhances collaboration and communication among industry professionals.

PLIKA – YEP MED’s legacy

Recognizing the potential of simulators, training centers and instructors are embracing this technology as a valuable tool to enhance their teaching methodologies. This transition requires adapting instructional approaches, curriculum design, and assessment methods to effectively incorporate simulators into training programmes. It necessitates upskilling instructors to leverage the full potential of simulation technology and integrate it seamlessly into their teaching practices.

This is where PLIKA comes into play. The birth of the Academy marks a significant step towards fostering collaboration and progress among port communities worldwide. It serves as a collaborative platform where, on an international level, training centers, instructors, and industry professionals can come together to share best practices, exchange experiences, and collectively address the challenges associated with the integration of simulators in training programmes. It provides a space for knowledge exchange, networking, and cooperation, fostering a community-driven approach to enhance training effectiveness and innovation. The primary objective of PLIKA is to build a strong network of collaboration, positioning port communities as lighthouse of development and drivers of societal progress. It’s founding members are those who collaborated on the YEP MED project, including the MEDports Association – which helps enlarge the collaborative forum of partnerships.

Through PLIKA, training centers can share insights on successful simulator implementations, discuss strategies for curriculum integration, and collaborate on the development of standardized training modules. Instructors can exchange pedagogical approaches, explore simulation-based teaching methodologies, and access resources to enhance their instructional techniques. Industry professionals can provide valuable insights into the practical applications of simulators and contribute to the development of industry-relevant training programs.

The collaborative nature of PLIKA enables stakeholders to learn from each other’s experiences, leverage collective expertise, and accelerate the adoption of simulators in training environments. By coming together under the PLIKA umbrella, training centers and instructors can navigate the transition process more efficiently, avoiding duplicative efforts and benefiting from shared knowledge.

Conclusion:

PLIKA’s establishment symbolizes a collective commitment to empower port communities, training centres and drive societal progress. By fostering collaboration, sharing knowledge, and embracing innovation, PLIKA enables port communities to become catalysts for economic growth, sustainability, and social well-being. Through its initiatives, PLIKA aims to create a future where port communities thrive, making a lasting impact on the industry and society as a whole. Training centres are not left behind. The emergence of simulators as a vital component of business training has necessitated an unprecedented transition effort by training centers and instructors. PLIKA serves as a collaborative platform where stakeholders can share experiences, exchange best practices, and collectively address the challenges associated with incorporating simulators into training programmes. By fostering a collaborative community-driven approach, PLIKA aims to enhance training effectiveness, encourage innovation, and facilitate the seamless integration of simulators in the educational landscape, whilst at the same time ensuring that port communities stay at the forefront of global innovation and progress.

Written by:

Eduard Rodés, Director - Escola Europea - Intermodal Transporrt

Written by: Eduard Rodés,
Director – Escola Europea – Intermodal Transporrt

Written by Lidia Slawinska, Digital Communication Manager – Escola Europea Intermodal Transport

Written by Orlando Revecco, Digital Product Manager of the Escola Europea

Tag Archive for: PLIKA

Port Virtual Lab Training of Trainers going digital

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Este curso ofrece una formación para los que buscan liderar la transformación digital en sus organizaciones a través de la implementación IA en sus operaciones de marketing y de ventas en la comunidad portuaria de Barcelona.

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