The Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport (AASTMT) has achieved a major milestone in international research and innovation, securing funding for six projects under the European Union’s prestigious INTERREG NEXT MED Programme 2026.
This accomplishment reinforces AASTMT’s position as one of the region’s leading institutions in research, sustainability, innovation, and international cooperation, while further advancing its contribution to addressing some of the Mediterranean region’s most pressing environmental and socio-economic challenges.
A Competitive International Achievement
The final results of the INTERREG NEXT MED Programme, announced in May 2026, revealed that only 49 projects were selected for funding out of 631 submitted proposals representing 19 Mediterranean countries.
Egypt achieved a remarkable performance by securing funding for 23 projects, with AASTMT alone contributing six winning projects—an achievement that reflects the Academy’s growing international reputation and the excellence of its researchers and academic teams.
Driving Sustainable Development Across the Mediterranean
The six awarded projects address critical priorities aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including climate resilience, water sustainability, green education, youth empowerment, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable agriculture.
Through these projects, AASTMT will collaborate with universities, research institutions, governmental organizations, and industry partners across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East to deliver innovative solutions with tangible impact on communities throughout the Mediterranean region.
The Six Awarded Projects
EU-TREES
EUropean Trans-urban Reforestation for the Empowerment of Environmental Strategies
A project focused on urban greening and the rehabilitation of degraded urban areas through nature-based solutions. The initiative aims to reduce carbon emissions, improve air quality, enhance energy efficiency, and strengthen climate resilience. Alexandria will host one of the project’s pilot sites to demonstrate innovative environmental solutions.
WaTIMed
Optimizing Water Sustainability through Advanced Wastewater Treatment and Irrigation Innovations Across the Mediterranean
WaTIMed addresses growing water scarcity challenges through advanced wastewater treatment technologies, safe water reuse, smart irrigation systems, renewable energy integration, and digital monitoring tools to support sustainable agriculture.
MED GREEN SKILLS
Empowering Youth for a Sustainable Future
This project aims to equip young people with the skills required for emerging green economy sectors through specialized training programs, digital learning platforms, and employment-focused networking initiatives that connect youth with future green job opportunities.
EDU-GREEN
Education that Changes the World
EDU-GREEN expands access to sustainability-focused education and training, particularly for vulnerable and underrepresented groups. The project will establish a cross-border digital learning infrastructure and strengthen pathways between education and green employment opportunities.
My Med Land
Education, Training, Entrepreneurship in Agroforestry and Regeneration for a Green Transition in the Mediterranean
This initiative promotes ecosystem restoration, biodiversity conservation, water efficiency, and sustainable entrepreneurship. Through training, demonstration sites, and support for green startups, the project aims to generate both environmental and economic benefits across the region.
HARVEST
Harnessing Advanced Technologies & Research for Climate-Resilient Agriculture
HARVEST focuses on deploying innovative technologies that improve agricultural productivity while addressing food, water, and energy security challenges. The project will implement pilot initiatives across Mediterranean countries and accelerate the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices.
A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
Since its establishment in 1972, AASTMT has built a distinguished legacy as one of the Arab region’s leading educational institutions. Through its commitment to academic excellence, applied research, and international collaboration, the Academy continues to contribute to sustainable development and knowledge creation at both regional and global levels.
The success achieved under the INTERREG NEXT MED Programme 2026 represents another important step in AASTMT’s mission to transform research into real-world impact and to prepare future generations of leaders capable of driving positive change.
As the Academy continues to expand its international research partnerships, it remains committed to advancing innovation, sustainability, and community development across the Mediterranean and beyond.
For more information, visit www.aast.edu or call 19838.