NextGen Academy launched to empower young aquaculture professionals
The Federation of European Aquaculture Producers (FEAP) recently hosted its inaugural NextGen Academy training session on March 25–26 in Brussels, which attracted 15 young professionals from 14 different countries engaged in the fish farming industry. This two-day event, referred to as a “Deep Dive into EU institutions,” was designed to foster connections between early-career aquaculture experts and key European institutional stakeholders involved in fisheries and aquaculture policymaking.
Supported by AquaSoja (Soja de Portugal), the training aimed not only to impart knowledge but also to encourage greater youth engagement and generational renewal within the European aquaculture sector. FEAP developed the NextGen programme in response to discussions with various groups, including the Network of Women in Aquaculture (NOWA), the Young Aquaculture Society (YAS), and YoungFish Norway, recognising the need for a more inclusive approach to the future of the industry.
In the lead-up to the training, FEAP reported a significant level of interest, receiving over 100 applications for the 15 available spots. "When we started a few months ago developing this idea, we were never expecting to drive so much interest and so many applicants for this first edition," FEAP stated in a press release. This enthusiastic response indicates a robust demand for professional development opportunities tailored specifically to the needs of young professionals in aquaculture.
The participants spent their time engaging with representatives from several pivotal organisations, including the Aquaculture Advisory Council (AAC), Market Advisory Council (MAC), European Aquaculture Technology and Innovation Platform (EATIP), and the European Feed Manufacturers' Federation (FEFAC). They also interacted with officials from the European Commission's Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (DG MARE) and Directorate-General for Research (DG Research), as well as Members of the European Parliament.
The training provided a platform for participants to express practical questions and challenges they confront in their respective roles. FEAP remarked on the positive atmosphere, stating, "All enjoyed connecting and interacting with various EU stakeholders, and many brought to the table very practical questions and challenges which they wanted to address first hand with the European stakeholders involved in the training. After this first training, we feel the future of aquaculture will be bright!"
In a statement regarding the NextGen Academy, FEAP emphasised its commitment to continuing the initiative and enhancing youth-focused projects within the aquaculture sector. The Federation aims to ensure that the next generation of professionals is well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the industry and contribute meaningfully to its development.
For further details on the NextGen Academy and its ongoing initiatives, interested parties are encouraged to visit the FEAP website, which serves as a resource for information and updates about the programme. The successful launch of this training represents a significant step towards fostering a vibrant and knowledgeable future workforce in European aquaculture.