The Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport (AASTMT) is proud to announce a significant milestone in its pursuit of excellence in research, sustainability, and innovation. The Academy has been awarded funding for five exceptional projects under the prestigious INTERREG 2025 program, funded by the European Union.
This is a remarkable achievement that underscores the Academy’s unwavering commitment to contributing to the advancement of knowledge and sustainable development in the Mediterranean region. As a leader in education, research, and community service, AASTMT is dedicated to providing impactful solutions that drive regional collaboration, innovation, and environmental stewardship.
AASTMT: A Legacy of Over 50 Years of Excellence
For more than five decades, AASTMT has stood at the forefront of higher education and research in the Arab world. Established in 1972, the Academy has grown to become one of the leading institutions in the region, continuously evolving to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing global landscape. Over the years, AASTMT has built a legacy of excellence, providing world-class education and producing leaders across various sectors, including maritime, engineering, business, and technology.
This achievement in the INTERREG 2025 program is just one of many milestones in the Academy’s long history of fostering innovation, sustainability, and community engagement. As we move into the future, AASTMT continues to honor its rich history while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible for our students, faculty, and the communities we serve.
What is INTERREG 2025?
The INTERREG program is a pioneering initiative by the European Union aimed at fostering regional cooperation and integration. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and cross-border collaboration, INTERREG 2025 aims to support projects that align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and enhance the quality of life for Mediterranean communities.
In a highly competitive selection process, AASTMT emerged victorious, securing funding for five of its submitted projects, which will be instrumental in advancing sustainable practices and fostering innovation across the region.
The Five Awarded Projects
Here’s a closer look at the groundbreaking projects that AASTMT will be leading:
1. Green OLIVE
The Green OLIVE project aims to revolutionize industrial heat production in the Mediterranean by developing a solar energy system capable of generating 1 MW of power and heating oil to 300°C. This innovative system reduces reliance on fossil fuels by 18-22%, contributing to environmental sustainability. The Academy’s share of funding for this project is €180,000, with the project being implemented in collaboration with partners from Italy, Spain, Turkey, and Palestine.
2. RESt4GREEN
Focused on boosting energy efficiency and advancing the green economy, RESt4GREEN incorporates cutting-edge technologies such as solar trees, smart benches, and energy monitoring platforms. This project will promote sustainable practices across public buildings and empower local communities to reduce energy consumption and emissions. The Academy’s share is €360,000, and the project will be implemented with partners from Greece, Spain, Italy, Turkey, Tunisia, and Jordan.
3. HEEFTA
The HEEFTA project tackles the pressing environmental crisis by enhancing education and training in “green and blue” skills. It will focus on water management, biodiversity, and sustainable agriculture while promoting collaboration among academic, research, and community organizations. With a funding share of €190,000, this project will be carried out with partners from Spain, Italy, Greece, Turkey, and Tunisia.
4. SPEED UP
SPEED UP aims to accelerate the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the Mediterranean by establishing innovation hubs that promote sustainable development, green business practices, and social responsibility. The project focuses on fostering entrepreneurship, especially among marginalized groups, and integrating sustainability into business operations. The Academy’s share of funding is €380,000, in collaboration with partners from Greece, Spain, Cyprus, Lebanon, Tunisia, and Jordan.
5. Green Med Port
The Green Med Port project is set to transform Mediterranean ports by incorporating green technologies and artificial intelligence to enhance operational efficiency while reducing carbon emissions. With a total funding of €260,000, AASTMT will collaborate with partners from Italy, Spain, Algeria, Malta, Tunisia, and Jordan to build sustainable infrastructure and promote best environmental practices in port management.
Why Studying at an Institution That Fosters Sustainability is Important?
Studying at an institution that prioritizes sustainability, like AASTMT, prepares students for the future by equipping them with the knowledge and skills to tackle the complex environmental, social, and economic challenges of our time. In today’s rapidly changing world, sustainability is no longer just an option – it’s a necessity.
At AASTMT, students are exposed to cutting-edge research and practical solutions that address the global demand for sustainable practices. Whether through initiatives like the INTERREG funded projects or hands-on learning in areas like renewable energy, green technologies, or sustainable business practices, AASTMT is dedicated to producing graduates who are not only highly skilled but also environmentally conscious and committed to creating positive change.
Students at AASTMT are encouraged to think critically about how they can contribute to building a more sustainable future, whether in the maritime industry, engineering, logistics, or entrepreneurship. This emphasis on sustainability is more than just an academic focus—it’s a core value that permeates every aspect of life at the Academy, ensuring that students leave equipped to lead in industries and communities committed to the well-being of the planet.
Looking Forward to a Sustainable Future
As a forward-thinking institution, AASTMT is committed to promoting sustainability, advancing research, and creating opportunities for collaboration across borders. These projects are just the beginning, and the Academy remains dedicated to contributing to a more sustainable, innovative, and interconnected world.
With these five awarded projects, AASTMT is poised to continue making meaningful contributions to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and to ensuring a brighter, greener future for the Mediterranean region and beyond.
Stay tuned for more updates as we embark on these transformative projects and continue our mission to create positive, lasting change in the world!
For more information about the ‘INTERREG 2025’ program and the projects AASTMT is involved in, feel free to reach out by visiting www.aast.edu or calling 19838.
