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GREENDT advances with Second Train-the-Trainers Workshop in Viana do Castelo, Portugal

The GREENDT project continued its mission to reshape engineering education through sustainability with its second Train-the-Trainers (ToT) workshop, hosted from July 21 to 23, 2025, at the Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo in Portugal. As part of Task 3.3 – Implementation of ToT-Enhanced Training Sessions, the event focused on the capacity building in sustainable energy management, natural radiation, and geospatial technologies for researchers, educators, engineers, and students from across the consortium.

Professors Joana Almeida and Leonel Nunes, both from IPVC, emphasized the relevance of these trainings to capacitate attendees on how to address Uzbekistan’s environmental main issues.

Day 1 – Sustainability, Risk, and Indoor Environmental Quality

Participants explored integrated approaches to sustainability in engineering, covering the following topics:

The sessions reflected the need to address health, safety and sustainability issues, that can be tackled throughout the project.

Day 2 – Renewable Energy, Land Use, and Geospatial Innovation

Building on the first day’s foundations, the second round invited participants to deepen their understanding of sustainability through real-world applications, spatial analysis, and strategic planning tools designed to address complex environmental challenges. Sessions addresed:

  • Fossil vs. Renewable Energies.
  • Technical Visit to the Sustainable Building.
  • Land Management.
  • Practical Geoprocessing and Remote Detection.

Focusing on Uzbekistan’s actual issues, the sessions highlighted the importance of integrated planning for sustainable development.

Day 3 – Field Visits and Final Wrap-Up

On the last training day, participants had the opportunity to connect theoretical learning with real-world practices in renewable energy, water management, and sustainable waste treatment through direct engagement with regional institutions and industry leaders. Visits included:

  • ENERCON (Lanheses): Visit to a major renewable energy manufacturer.
  • Águas do Alto-Minho (Gil Eanes Ship-Museum): Exploration of Portugal’s maritime life and regional water management initiatives.
  • RESULIMA (Vila Fria): Study visit to a waste treatment and sustainability innovation facility.

The day concluded with a final wrap-up session led by IPVC members, reinforcing key takeaways from the training and setting the third workshop to be held later in October, in Uzbekistan.

Towards Sustainable Transformation in Engineering Education

Throughout the three-day workshop, faculty and technical staff from partner institutions engaged in knowledge exchange and co-development of educational materials — also laying the groundwork for sustainable collaboration beyond the GREENDT project.

This second ToT workshop not only delivered specialized technical training, but also reinforced GREENDT’s broader vision: equipping educators to train future engineers capable of addressing global environmental challenges through innovation, equity, and collaboration.

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GREENDT Kicks Off First Train-the-Trainers Workshop in Ourense, Spain

The GREENDT project successfully launched its first Train-the-Trainers (ToT) workshop from July 16 to 18, 2025, hosted by the Universidade de Vigo (UVigo) at its Ourense Campus. The event marked a significant milestone in Task 3.3 – Implementation of ToT-Enhanced Training Sessions, bringing together researchers, educators, engineers, and students from across the consortium to co-develop and evaluate educational resources on key themes of the project: Engineering Diplomacy, Equity & Inclusion, and Environmental Engineering. 

Professor Maribel Doval, Associate Professor at UVigo’s Faculty of Education and Social Work and the university’s GREENDT coordinator, opened the session by emphasizing UVigo’s commitment to embedding sustainability, equity, and diversity into engineering education: 

“Our goal is to support our partner universities in designing a Master’s course that remains viable and impactful beyond the end of project funding. This means training future engineers to not only understand environmental systems, but to be able to navigate social and legal dimensions through diplomacy and inclusive practices.” 

A Deep Dive into Multidisciplinary Training Topics 

The training was structured around three key thematic pillars, directly aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): 

  1. Engineering Diplomacy (SDG 13 – Climate Action, SDG 16 – Peace, Justice & Strong Institutions)

Participants explored how engineers can act as mediators and influencers in global sustainability transitions. Topics included: 

  • European Environmental and Climate Law
  • The European Green Deal and Renewable Energy Law
  • Policy Instruments for Global Environmental Governance 

This module introduced the concept of “engineering diplomacy” as an emerging competence that links technical innovation with regulatory, legal, and policy-making processes. 

  1. Equity and Inclusion in Engineering Education (SDG 4 – Quality Education, SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities)

Hosted at UVigo’s Faculty of Education and Social Work, this module emphasized redesigning curricula to serve diverse learner populations. Sessions addressed: 

  • Engineering for All: Inclusive approaches to STEM education 
  • Intersectionality and social justice in higher education 
  • Institutional strategies for inclusive excellence 

The module championed values-based teaching as a core component of engineering training, especially in global contexts. 

  1. Environmental Engineering, Sustainability & Water Issues (SDG 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation, SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy, SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities)

Focusing on practical environmental issues, this segment explored: 

  • Environmental Engineering Curriculum Development 
  • Water Quality, Treatment Technologies, and Ecosystem Health 
  • Integration of Geothermal and Photovoltaic Systems into Education 

Participants also reviewed and provided feedback on Resource Kits developed for each thematic area, supporting the future rollout of the Master’s programme. 

Field Visits and Experiential Learning 

Beyond classroom sessions, participants engaged in hands-on and site-based learning, including visits to: 

  • UVigo’s geothermal and photovoltaic energy systems 
  • The pilot plant, soil, and environmental science labs 
  • The Velle Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP), a best practice model for sustainable urban water management 
  • The Botanical Garden and Sil River Canyons, showcasing the region’s ecological and cultural heritage 

These activities highlighted how UVigo’s Ourense Campus operates as a living laboratory aligned with the Agenda 2030 and Spain’s green transition objectives. 

Building Capacity for Long-Term Impact 

Throughout the training, visiting faculty and researchers from partner institutions collaborated with UVigo experts to review, adapt, and co-create teaching and learning materials. The workshop also provided opportunities for cross-institutional networking and interdisciplinary exchange—laying the groundwork for sustainable collaboration beyond the GREENDT project. 

With this first training session completed, GREENDT takes a major step toward institutional transformation in higher education, equipping future engineers with the knowledge and tools to drive systemic change. 

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GREENDT highlights intercultural dialogue with Uzbekistan Cultural Day

As part of the second GREENDT project consortium meeting, which will take place in Vigo, Spain on July 14 and 15, 2025, a special event titled “Uzbekistan Cultural Day” will be held on July 15 from 15:00 to 17:00 at the Edificio Redeiras and from 17:00 to 19:00 at the Afundación building. The event is jointly organized by the University of Vigo, the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Spain, the Embassy of Uzbekistan in France, and Fergana State Technical University (FSTU) and aims to celebrate and share the rich cultural heritage of Uzbekistan with an international audience. 

This initiative seeks to foster intercultural dialogue and highlight the significance of cultural heritage in advancing global values such as sustainability, inclusion, and cooperation. A key message of the event will be to promote the upcoming 43rd UNESCO General Assembly session, which will, for the first time in history, be hosted in Samarkand, Uzbekistan — marking a historic milestone as the session traditionally takes place in Paris. 

The event will feature a dynamic program including: 

  • Live performances of traditional Uzbek music and dance. 
  • Exhibitions showcasing national handicrafts, including embroidery, ceramics, and textiles.
  • Short documentary screenings on Uzbekistan’s cultural sites and intangible heritage.
  • Presentation of Uzbekistan’s more than 100-year-old rich history, from ancient civilizations to modern reforms.
  • Tasting of national Uzbek cuisine, offering guests an authentic multisensory experience. 
  • Guest speakers from the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Spain and FSTU, who will discuss the role of cultural preservation and exchange. 

Beyond its cultural focus, the event is also an opportunity to reinforce Uzbekistan’s image on the global stage as a country that honors its traditions while embracing innovation and progressive reforms. By sharing its identity, history, and national values, Uzbekistan aims to position itself as a committed partner in the global effort for sustainable development. 

Uzbekistan’s Role in the Global Cultural Landscape 

Like every country, Uzbekistan holds a distinct place in the global cultural mosaic. With its ancient history as a cradle of civilizations and its strategic location along the Silk Road, the nation has for centuries been a vibrant crossroads of knowledge, trade, and cultural exchange. 

Today, the Uzbek diaspora spans many countries, where communities maintain a strong connection to national traditions while actively participating in local cultural life. This strong sense of identity—combined with a spirit of openness—enables Uzbek people to live in harmony with other cultures and contribute meaningfully to shared development. 

Events such as Uzbekistan Cultural Day play a vital role in promoting intercultural understanding and cross-border knowledge exchange. In an increasingly interconnected world, these moments of dialogue and celebration are essential for building trust, encouraging innovation, and reinforcing mutual respect among nations. 

 

Photo 1: MarjonaKhidirova

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The GREENDT consortium to hold in Vigo its second project meeting for advancing Environmental Engineering Education

From July 14 to 15, 2025, the GREENDT consortium will gather in Vigo, Spain, for its second project meeting, which will take place at the Edificio Redeiras. Over two intensive days, partners will discuss the progress made, align efforts, and coordinate the next steps. Focusing on sustainable transition, digital innovation and capacity building, the project aims to support an inclusive transition across Uzbekistan’s and Central Asian Higher Education Institutions. 

Day 1 

The meeting will begin with welcome speeches and a brief overview of the agenda, led by Maribel Doval from the University of Vigo (UVigo). 

The morning will focus on project coordination (WP1), where the Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo (IPVC) will present updates on the overall status, project deliverables, financial aspects, and the consortium agreement. The session will also include a presentation of the project’s Quality Control Plan and an external evaluation strategy. These tools are essential to ensure that the work stays on track and meets the expected standards. 

In the afternoon, after lunch, the spotlight will turn to the project’s technical work packages. WP2 and WP3 will address the planning of the next training sessions, with input from Jizzakh Polytechnic Institute (JizPI), Universidade de Averiro (UAveiro), Central Asia Green University (CAGU), and the UVigo. WP4 and WP5 will follow, with updates on laboratory equipment procurement, the implementation of the EE Nexus platform, and strategies for implementing training and digital learning platforms in Uzbek partner institutions. The day will wrap up with a group discussion to consolidate key insights and prepare for the strategic planning to come. 

Day 2 

The second day will shift focus toward the implementation of new educational programs. WP6 presentations will outline plans for launching master’s degrees in Environmental Engineering, while WP7 will address dissemination activities, including events in Vigo and Viana do Castelo.  

After a short coffee break and informal interviews led by the Fundación Empresa-Universidad Gallega (FEUGA), the group will dive into a planning session to review the project’s timeline, performance indicators, and key takeaways from the meeting. CAGU will also present a preliminary plan for the next consortium meeting. 

In the afternoon, participants will have the opportunity to visit the UVigo campus and learn more about the university’s facilities and educational environment. The meeting will close with a special cultural event, “Uzbekistan Cultural Day,” organized in collaboration with UNESCO and Fergana State Technical University (FerPI). It will be a unique chance to celebrate cultural exchange and strengthen the sense of community across the GREENDT partnership. 

Looking ahead 

The upcoming meeting in Vigo will be a key milestone for GREENDT. As the project begins to move from planning into implementation, partners will have the chance to build on the work done so far and take concrete steps toward strengthening environmental engineering education. With everyone’s continued collaboration and commitment, GREENDT is well positioned to bring about meaningful, long-term improvements in higher education systems across Central Asia. 

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EU-Central Asia Summit Marks New Chapter in Regional Cooperation

On 4 April 2025, the first-ever EU-Central Asia Summit took place in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, marking a historic milestone in the relations between the European Union (EU) and the Central Asian countries. The summit was chaired by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan and attended by the President of the European Council António Costa, the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, and the leaders of the five Central Asian countries: President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan, President Sadyr Japarov of Kyrgyzstan, President Emomali Rahmon of Tajikistan, and President Serdar Berdimuhamedov of Turkmenistan.

The leaders gathered to elevate EU-Central Asia relations, agreeing to establish a strategic partnership that will guide their collaboration in the years ahead. This summit followed years of intensifying high-level engagements and bilateral cooperation between the two regions, with the leaders recognizing the profound transformation in Central Asia that has led to deeper ties with the EU.

A Strong Commitment to Partnership

During the summit, President Mirziyoyev emphasized the growing need for close cooperation between Central Asia and the EU, highlighting the mutual political will that has driven the transformation in the region. “The development of our multifaceted cooperation is facilitated by the profound transformation in Central Asia, which has become sustainable and irreversible thanks to common political will,” Mirziyoyev said. He stressed that the summit would result in concrete decisions and initiatives to implement the agreements made.

EU leaders also expressed their commitment to deepening cooperation. António Costa, President of the European Council, affirmed, “After years of successful cooperation, it is time to take our partnership with Central Asia to the next level, deepening trade, strengthening regional collaboration, and expanding people-to-people ties.” Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the launch of a €12 billion investment package under the Global Gateway Strategy aimed at strengthening transport links, critical raw materials, and cooperation on energy and water.

Key Achievements and Commitments

One of the key announcements from the summit was the €12 billion Global Gateway investment package aimed at boosting transport connectivity, energy cooperation, and the green transition between the EU and Central Asia. Leaders also discussed the ongoing efforts to enhance the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor, which will link Central Asia with Europe through sustainable transport infrastructure and logistics networks.

To support these initiatives, a €10 billion international investment package was also mobilized to enhance sustainable transport infrastructure in the region. Additionally, EU leaders reaffirmed their support for the accession of Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan to the World Trade Organization (WTO), which will further integrate these countries into the global economy.

In terms of sustainable development, the summit saw the endorsement of the EU-Central Asia declaration of intent on critical raw materials, underscoring the shared commitment to building sustainable value chains for these materials essential to green technologies and the energy transition.

Regional and Global Security

The leaders also reiterated their commitment to regional and global stability. They expressed concerns about the ongoing situations in Afghanistan and Ukraine, agreeing to cooperate on security and the peaceful resolution of conflicts in these regions. The importance of maintaining the rule of law, human rights, and fundamental freedoms was also emphasized as central to the evolving EU-Central Asia partnership.

A New Chapter in EU-Central Asia Relations

In their concluding remarks, EU leaders congratulated President Mirziyoyev for his hospitality and the successful organization of the summit, which marks a new chapter in EU-Central Asia relations. The strategic partnership will serve as the foundation for a deeper, long-lasting collaboration between the two regions, aiming for mutual prosperity, peace, and stability.

With this historic summit, the EU and Central Asia have paved the way for a future of stronger economic ties, sustainable development, and enhanced security cooperation, fostering a partnership that will benefit both regions for generations to come.

 

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Help Shape the Future of Environmental Engineering Education in Uzbekistan

As part of the Erasmus+ Capacity Building project “Implementing Environmental Engineering Master Degrees through Sustainable Transition and Societal Change” (GREENDT), we are conducting a survey to support the development of a new Master’s program in Environmental Engineering in Uzbekistan.

Why This Survey Matters

Uzbekistan faces a range of pressing environmental challenges—from air and water pollution to waste management and soil degradation. The GREENDT project seeks to address these challenges by designing a modern, innovative Master’s program grounded in the expertise of European Union universities. But for the program to be effective and relevant, we need the perspectives of those most connected to the issues: you.

What the Survey Covers

The survey aims to identify:

  • The most critical environmental concerns in Uzbekistan.
  • Gaps in current education and policy.
  • Public awareness of environmental engineering as a profession.
  • Motivations for pursuing a degree in this field.
  • Opportunities for collaboration between universities, industries, and government institutions.
  • The potential for integrating sustainable practices into higher education and beyond.

Who Should Participate

We invite individuals with a connection to Uzbekistan to take part in the survey, including:

  • Students and recent graduates.
  • University faculty and staff.
  • Professionals working in environmental fields.
  • Policy makers and members of civil society.
  • Anyone interested in sustainability and environmental education.

Take the Survey

Your feedback is essential in designing a curriculum that meets both local and global standards. Please choose the language version that suits you best:

Why Participate?

Your insights will directly influence the creation of a high-quality academic program that not only prepares students for future careers but also contributes to environmental protection and sustainable development in Uzbekistan.

 

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GREENDT: Kick-Off Meeting Launches a New Era in Environmental Engineering Education in Uzbekistan

The GREENDT project (Implementing Master Degrees in Environmental Engineering through Sustainable Transition and Societal Change) officially took off with a high-impact Kick-Off Meeting (KOM) held from February 17–18, 2025, in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. This two-day event, hosted by Kimyo International University, marked the beginning of an ambitious three-year Erasmus+ initiative aimed at transforming Environmental Engineering education in Uzbekistan.

Bringing together a consortium of 11 partner institutions from Uzbekistan, Portugal, and Spain, the KOM served as a pivotal platform to align visions, set priorities, and lay the groundwork for deep academic collaboration. The meeting was a milestone not only for launching the project but for establishing the strong international partnerships that will drive GREENDT forward.

Participants engaged in intensive sessions covering:

  • Strategic planning and review of the project Work Packages.
  • Financial and administrative procedures related to the project.
  • Roadmaps for training, webinars, and the development of a handbook.
  • Planning of key deliverables, including a  survey and SWOT analysis, the educational toolkit, and laboratory equipment procurement.

Beyond the technical discussions, the KOM fostered a vibrant exchange of ideas and experiences. Visits to Kimyo International University and the historic city of Samarkand enriched the gathering, creating opportunities for cultural connection and dialogue with local faculty and students.

The Kick-Off Meeting set a strong tone for the project’s trajectory. As the starting point of GREENDT, the KOM reaffirmed the commitment of all partners to empower universities in Uzbekistan to deliver forward-thinking, high-quality education in Environmental Engineering—aligned with the EU Green Deal and the global sustainability agenda.

About GREENDT

GREENDT is a transformative Erasmus+ project dedicated to advancing Environmental Engineering education through sustainable transition and societal change. It aims to enhance the skills and employability of students in Uzbekistan’s Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) by introducing an innovative Master’s degree program and promoting collaboration with EU institutions. Coordinated by the Polytechnic Institute of Viana do Castelo (IPVC), GREENDT supports knowledge transfer, entrepreneurship, and green innovation.

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