Kick-off meeting of Jean Monnet Module Restoring and Protecting Albanian Wetlands: Conservation, Challenges, and EU Integration Perspectives/WISE-EU"

The new Jean Monnet Module will have its Kick-off meeting for the World Wetlands Day to celebrate the importance of wetlands for people and nature. In this meeting the Project staf will share short presentations about wetlands and then it will be a lecture dedicated to the importance of wetlands. The WISE-EU Module focuses on wetlands, vital yet fragile ecosystems that require sustainable management. Capacity building for students, communities, local and government managers, and other stakeholders is essential for the wise use of wetlands, which should be aligned with international conventions and EU directives, especially the Directive on Habitats and Biodiversity Strategy. The University of Tirana will implement the Module in collaboration with other Albanian universities and government bodies and aims to engage at least 250 participants over three years. The WISE-EU Module seeks to enhance understanding of Albanian wetlands and their restoration, protection, and conservation following EU guidelines and Directives. It is organized as a multidisciplinary Module and is led by a team of experienced professors and experts, who will cover Environmental Law, socio-economic aspects, and GIS technology for integrated wetland management. Teaching will include lectures, seminars, field visits, training, and summer schools. The team will also produce at least two academic papers and a policy paper on sustainable wetland use. Main objectives include: - Enhancing knowledge of the European integration process and its historical, socio-economic, and environmental aspects in Albania. Promoting partnerships with academic institutions and relevant ministries for wetland management. Cultivating critical thinking through engagement with contemporary EU issues and diverse teaching methods. Developing practical skills in policy analysis, advocacy, and communication for effective EU engagement. Digital Capacity building for students, managers, and the community to use GIS technology and other tools and applications to better manage the wetlands. This project is co-funded by EU