Tag Archive for: simulation

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

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.

Spain’s Ministry of Transport Highlights Escola Europea’s Port Virtual Lab as a Key Tool for Logistics Digitalisation

Madrid, 4 December 2024 – Eduard Rodés, Director of Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport, and Marta Miquel, Head of the Institution’s Business Development Department, met today in Madrid with Benito Núñez Quintanilla, Secretary General for Air and Maritime Transport at Spain’s Ministry of Transport, Mobility and Urban Agenda. The meeting focused on advancing digitalisation in the port and airport logistics sectors.

During the discussion, Escola Europea presented its simulation tool, the Port Virtual Lab (PVL), which is designed to train logistics professionals through simulated environments that replicate real-world operations. The Secretary General was highly impressed with the initiative, recognising its potential to accelerate digitalisation in the sector and its suitability for inclusion in the Ministry’s Digitalisation Training Voucher programmes.

Having collaborated with Escola Europea in previous roles within the Ministry, Benito Núñez was already familiar with the organisation’s work. This prior knowledge reinforced his positive evaluation of the Port Virtual Lab and its potential for practical application in both the port and airport logistics sectors.

“Digitalisation is one of the logistics sector’s most pressing challenges, and initiatives like the Port Virtual Lab can make a real impact in equipping professionals to tackle the demands of the future,” said Eduard Rodés during the meeting.

This meeting reaffirms Escola Europea’s commitment to innovation and excellence in training, strengthening its position as a key player in the modernisation and digitalisation of the logistics industry.

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.

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

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.

Port Virtual Lab Transforms South African Students into Logistics Experts through a pilot course

Port Virtual Lab (PVL), in its ongoing mission to bridge theoretical knowledge with real-world applications, proudly announces the successful conclusion of another pilot course aimed at training future logistics experts, this time for 18 students from Global Maritime Legal Solutions (GMLS), South Africa, thanks to the generous economic support of the international company Savino del Bene. Throughout April, these young visionaries, aged between 18 to 30, delved into the complexities of international logistics through a comprehensive virtual programme spanning three weeks.

Structured around a diverse curriculum, the course zeroed in on critical aspects of logistics such as port-logistics communities, delivery contracts, and operations, with a particular focus on electronic documentation, market research, and strategic packaging planning. Students were also introduced to the critical legal frameworks of Incoterms and the SAD document, equipping them with the theoretical skills they needed to complete the second part of the training – through a simulated port community environment.

PVL takes teaching a step beyond traditional learning. The course’s hallmark was its dynamic, simulated port community where students were able to collaboratively work in teams to plan international door-to-door logistics operations. The PVL environment encompasses 23 simulated companies, allowing students to assume vital roles in the logistics chain, from freight forwarders to operations managers.

Thanks to ERP software developed by Click&Cargo, the course can offer hands-on experience in maritime and airfreight operations, tariff classification, and export management. Such interactive learning journey extends beyond simple logistics; it fosters a deep understanding of economic principles within the context of global trade. By navigating real-time scenarios, the GMLS students could hone their problem-solving skills and acquired the analytical acumen necessary for impactful decision-making.

‘What an amazing project this has been! I am deeply grateful to Escola and the entire team. My numerous questions were met with patience, grace, and honesty. The presentations had a profound impact, and I valued the opportunity to share a space with the system designers, lawmakers, and environmental leaders. I would gladly repeat this experience,’ said Cynthia Thandeka Magagula, a student from GMLS. The course earned an impressive average evaluation rating of 4.88 out of 5 from the participants, underscoring their high level of satisfaction.

Looking to the future, PVL remains committed to providing education that links academic theory with practical industry skills. The course’s success with the GMLS students demonstrates the effectiveness of PVL’s approach and its ability to establish valuable educational partnerships. GMLS now joins the ranks of the University of Barcelona, STC Netherlands, and the Saudi Logistics Academy in partnering with PVL to offer pilot courses that focus on virtual and experiential learning that are closely aligned with industry requirements.

PVL continues to welcome collaboration with industry professionals, educational institutions, and students. Each course aims to set new benchmarks for hands-on learning in the logistics and transportation sectors.

Port Virtual Lab continues to bridge knowledge and practical application in international logistics

PVL welcomes the Saudi Logistics Academy and ITS La Spezia among its collaborators

Port Virtual Lab (PVL), has launched comprehensive trainings designed to hone the skills of students in the intricate world of international logistics and transportation operations this past week, bridging the gap between knowledge and practical applications of the industries. The two separate pilot courses have been designed for students coming from ITS La Spezia in Italy and the Saudi Logistics Academy. The former will begin on the 25th of January and continue until the 15th of March, whereas the latter has launched this past Monday on the 22nd of January, and will continue until the 28th of February. The sessions will be held over eight weeks with half-day instruction, marking a significant step in the practical education of future logistics professionals. These courses aim to test and pilot the concept that came out of the Escola’s participation in the European YEP MED project, which finalised in December of 2023. By providing students with hands-on training in international logistics and transportation operations through a simulated environment offered by Port Virtual Lab (PVL), we aim to refine and enhance the practical applications of the innovative ideas developed during the European project.

Empowering the Next Generation of Logistics Experts

Over the next few weeks, participants will engage in an immersive learning environment that spans the full spectrum of the supply chain. Adopting roles within the platform’s extensive range of simulated companies, students will experience first-hand the operations of freight forwarders, whilst interacting with simulated shipping and airline companies, road transport, railways, and port terminals in a controlled and realistic environment within the platform. 

The course’s strategic objectives are threefold: to provide a simulated environment for participants to sharpen their logistics and transportation skills, to foster autonomous development in solving real-world problems, and to deepen understanding of economic principles within the context of international trade.

A Deep Dive into Real-World Simulations

Port Virtual Lab (PVL), a cutting-edge educational resource, serves as the backdrop for this advanced training programme. PVL encompasses a platform that holds 23 simulated companies within a digital port community system. The course includes a pioneering freight forwarder module developed with Click&Cargo, which offers participants near-real-life operation simulations of import and export operations.

The benefits of such simulation in training are profound. They offer real-time practice, diverse scenarios for robust problem-solving, and opportunities to test different transport combinations. These simulations allow participants to balance sustainability with the need for speed, a crucial skill in today’s fast-paced, eco-conscious market.

Through PVL’s immersive simulations, students can translate theoretical knowledge into practical expertise. They get challenged to navigate unforeseen circumstances, incidents, and conflicts that arise from the dynamics of a company’s interactions with customers and suppliers. This experience is invaluable in developing a responsible and proactive approach to decision-making.

The training also emphasizes the application of economic analysis to international trade, a critical aspect of the global market. Students will learn to identify the benefits and constraints of how global markets operate, equipping them with the analytical skills necessary for strategic decision-making in international logistics.

Looking Ahead

Port Virtual Lab courses are more than just a training programme; they serve as a bridge to the future of logistics education. By merging real-world scenarios with state-of-the-art simulation technology, PVL is setting a new standard for experiential learning. The course is not only equipping participants with the necessary tools to excel in the logistics and transportation sectors but also aims to instil a keen understanding of the global trade mechanisms and the versatility required to adapt to its ever-changing landscape.

PVL invites industry professionals, educational institutions, and students to continue this journey of discovery and professional development. The success of this course is a testament to the collaborative effort between PVL, ITS La Spezia, and the Saudi Logistics Academy, and serves as a call to action for other organisations to join in shaping the future of logistics training.

The lab is constantly evolving, with new simulations and modules being developed to mirror the latest industry trends and technologies. Those interested in being at the forefront of logistics innovation are encouraged to get involved. Whether it’s to prepare for the challenges of tomorrow, to engage with a network of like-minded professionals, or to contribute to the evolution of the logistics sector, PVL remains your premier partner in professional growth.

Final Conference of the TECHLOG project Highlights Achievements and Innovations in Mediterranean Logistics

The TECHLOG Final Conference, hosted at the University of Cagliari, Italy, on December 1st, marked the culmination of 30 months of dedicated efforts within the ENI CBC MED – EU co-financed project aimed at advancing Technological Transfer for Logistics Innovation in the Mediterranean area. With a robust attendance of over 73 participants, the event showcased the project’s milestones, outputs, and profound impact on the regional logistics sector.

The conference commenced with esteemed speakers extending institutional greetings to the attendees. Notable figures included Francesco Mola, Rector of the University of Cagliari; Ada Lai, Counsellor for Labour, Vocational Training, Cooperation, and Social Security of the Sardinia Region; Massimo Deiana, President of the Sardinian Ports’ Authority; and Fabio Mereu from the Chamber of Commerce of Cagliari, who also served as the delegate of ASCAME, the Association of the Mediterranean Chambers of Commerce.

Marco Melis, Director General of the ENI CBC MED Programme, Autonomous Region of Sardinia, delivered a comprehensive presentation, setting the tone for the conference and emphasizing the significance of ENI CBC MED projects in fostering collaboration and innovation within the Mediterranean region.

The heart of the conference featured two engaging roundtable discussions. The first focused on TECHLOG’s scientific results, with active participation from project partners representing the 5 participating countries Italy, Egypt, Spain, Lebanon and Tunisia. The roundtable covered topics including capacity building, agreements, and pilot actions in the Mediterranean area, featuring video presentations showcasing project results and interviews with crane and truck operators.

The second roundtable explored New Scenarios of the EURO-Mediterranean Transport Sector, offering insights into the evolving industry landscape. Moderated by Morena Pivetti, a transport and logistics journalist, the discussion included external stakeholders and industry experts from around the Mediterranean region, such as Vittorio Marzano, Professor at Federico II Naples University, Euan Lonmon – Board Member at GRENDI Group, Dr. Alaa Ezz – Secretary-General of the Confederation of Egyptian European Business Associations, Naima Zamoum – Business Development Manager Africa Trade Lane at CEVA Logistics  and Ummuhan Bardak – Senior Human Capital Development Expert – Skills Demand Analysis – European Training Foundation.

Audience members actively engaged in a dynamic questions & answers session, enriching the discussions and facilitating knowledge exchange. As TECHLOG enters its final month of the 30-month implementation period, the conference provided a valuable platform to reflect on the project’s impact and set the stage for future collaborations in the fields of logistics and technology.

TECHLOG (Technological Transfer for Logistics Innovation in the Mediterranean area) is an EU co-financed project with a duration of 30 months and a total budget of €3.4 million, of which €3.1 million (90%) is funded by the European Union. The project partners include the University of Cagliari in Italy (Lead beneficiary), the Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Crafts, and Agriculture of Maremma and Tirreno (Italy), the Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport (Egypt), the European School of Short Shipping, EEIG (Spain), the Confederation of Egyptian European Business Associations (Egypt), the Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture of Beirut and Mount Lebanon (Lebanon), the Egyptian Chamber of Commerce in Alexandria (Egypt), the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Sfax (Tunisia), and Sfax University (Tunisia).

For more information about TECHLOG, please visit: https://linktr.ee/techlog_project

Port Virtual Lab Expands Academic Alliances with the Fundació UAB

In a move that reinforces its commitment to promoting local and international educational collaborations, the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport is delighted to announce a significant partnership with the Foundation of the Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB) Foundation (Fundació UAB). This collaboration marks the company’s second agreement with a prominent Barcelona-based university, underscoring its dedication to advancing educational and research initiatives both at home and abroad.

The memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed between the two entities mirrors a successful agreement with STC Group Netherlands and with the University of Barcelona (Spain), setting the stage for an innovative approach to port logistics education.

This new educational initiative, set to commence in November 2023, offers a distinctive opportunity for participants to elevate their expertise in the field of port logistics. The backbone of this transformative endeavour is the Port Virtual Lab (PVL) training platform, which has garnered acclaim for revolutionizing education in the port logistics sector. The UAB Foundation’s esteemed reputation in academia and research further enriches this dynamic training solution.

Port Virtual Lab is an innovative and extensive platform that employs cutting-edge technology and educational resources. Functioning as an online logistics lab, it offers international trade, logistics, and transport professionals and students the opportunity to immerse themselves in realistic simulations of port operations and access a wealth of tools to enhance their skills and knowledge.

The platform encompasses 23 simulated companies within a digital port community system. Notably, it includes a pilot freight forwarder module perfected with the support of Click&Cargo, enabling near-real-life operation simulations of import and export operations. The PVL training program, now spanning nine days, includes interactive training modules and hands-on operations. Participants will be presented with realistic contracts and up-to-date information, ensuring a dynamic and immersive learning experience.

The concept of Port Virtual Lab emerged in 2020 when Escola Europea initiated a search for a software company to develop an Enterprise Resource Planning System (ERP) as the core of its virtual training model. This vision culminated in the creation of the platform that replicates a genuine port community, allowing course participants to engage in a controlled yet authentic environment and conduct simulated international trade operations.

Participants in Port Virtual Lab courses adopt various roles within the platform’s extensive range of companies, encompassing the entire supply chain. These roles span freight forwarding, shipping, airlines, road transport, railway companies, and port terminals. Plans are underway to further enrich the simulation by introducing additional supply chain actors to enhance the users’ experiences.

The significance of simulation in training endeavours cannot be overstated. Virtual simulators offer multiple advantages, including real-time practice, diverse scenarios for effective problem-solving, and the ability to test different transport combinations, prioritizing sustainability or speed as needed.

Educational offerings play a pivotal role in preparing future professionals for evolving industries. Simulators and virtual realities are key in providing hands-on experience and confidence to young jobseekers. Port Virtual Lab has been a significant leap in the development of such training tools in the Mediterranean region, and this collaboration with the Autonomous University of Barcelona Foundation marks its expansion across Europe and beyond. Notably, in a recent course, participants rated the platform with an impressive score of 4.94 out of a maximum of 5, highlighting the effectiveness of Port Virtual Lab in enhancing participants’ logistics skills.

The impact of this platform is expected to reverberate across various regions worldwide, leaving a lasting legacy long after the project’s scheduled completion in 2023.

Port Virtual Lab

Port Virtual Lab: Empowering Logistics Professionals Worldwide

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.

PLIKA: Transforming Port Communities through Innovative Training and Collaboration

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: simulation

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