The EUSEEDS project has moved forward in its implementation phase with an online kick-off meeting gathering representatives of the 24 beneficiary universities from across the Eastern Mediterranean region.
The meeting opened with an overview of the Interreg NEXT MED programme by its Joint Secretariat, highlighting its objectives, priorities, and the strategic framework supporting cross-border cooperation for a smarter, greener, and more inclusive Mediterranean.
Participants were then introduced to the EUSEEDS project’s vision, objectives, and expected impact by the Agence Universitaire de la Francophonie – Middle East, the project’s leader.
The session provided a comprehensive presentation of the partnership, clarifying the roles and responsibilities of each partner and outlining the collaborative approach that will guide implementation.
A detailed review of the project timeline followed, including key milestones, major deliverables, and planned activities for the coming months. Particular attention was given to coordination mechanisms, internal communication tools, and shared resources that will facilitate smooth collaboration among the 24 universities.
The meeting also addressed monitoring and evaluation indicators, ensuring that all beneficiaries have a clear understanding of reporting requirements, performance targets, and impact measurement tools.
Communication and visibility guidelines were presented to guarantee alignment with programme requirements and to ensure consistent and effective dissemination of EUSEEDS activities and results.
Next steps
Selected universities will benefit from support to pilot an employability center, including equipment support, structured guidance for management and operational oversight, and access to the results of a prospective study on labor market and employability demands.
The initiative will deliver comprehensive capacity-building programmes covering digital skills, soft skills, entrepreneurship, and student-entrepreneurship development.
Center managers will benefit from structured regional networking, and participation in both online and in-person meetings in France, Lebanon, and Cyprus. The project will also support university pre-incubator development, promote student-entrepreneur status, and provide access to a regional job portal to enhance employment pathways.
Key regional events will include two hackathon competitions, international missions for piloting and entrepreneurship exchange, and a final closing event to consolidate results and ensure sustainability.
For more details about the selected universities : https://www.interregnextmed.eu/24-universities-selected-to-join-the-euseeds-project-and-strengthen-young-peoples-employability-and-digital-skills/
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