Attractiveness and networks of fish processing studies at university of applied sciences – Kalaverkko AMK
Duration of the project
Source of funding
European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund EMFF
Total funding
375 000 €
Revitalising the fisheries sector and educating new professionals in fish processing is an important step toward a sustainable and competitive food industry. The lack of education at UAS level has been one of the major obstacles to the development of the sector.
In this project, we are launching a new educational path at Turku University of Applied Sciences focused on the fish processing chain and its use in food production. We are also working to increase the attractiveness of the fisheries sector and its related education. In addition, we support innovation and internationalisation in Finland’s fisheries sector, and promote dialogue, knowledge exchange, and collaboration among various stakeholders such as educational institutions, companies, and interest groups.
Objectives
The project aims to provide solutions to the key challenges of the Finnish fisheries sector. Sustainably growing and competitive domestic fisheries industry requires
- new professional and skilled labour,
- an improved public image, and
- product development and innovation in fish processing.
Achieve the objectives through three main approaches:
1
Education – We will launch a new study path at university of applied sciences (UAS) level focused on food expertise in fish processing, as part of the Biotechnology and Chemical technology Engineering degree programme at Turku UAS. In addition, we will offer continuous training in fish processing and food expertise as open university studies.
2
Public image and awareness – We aim to enhance the public image of the fisheries sector and increase the attractiveness of education by creating a modern, positive image through marketing and communication campaigns. These campaigns will highlight the renewing fisheries sector in an information-based way, as well as its education and career opportunities. Awareness of the sector will also grow through the wider dissemination of knowledge generated by the project.
3
Collaboration – Developing expertise requires collaboration among the stakeholders in the sector. We will strengthen the impact and quality of education by, among other things, creating a competence forum for education providers in the sector and increasing networking with companies and other stakeholders. Collaboration and networking can also be enhanced through joint RDI projects that integrate teaching with the development needs of businesses. Turku UAS already has strong connections with the food industry and companies in the sector.
Knowledge development
The overall development approach will particularly benefit students aiming to enter the fisheries sector, as well as professionals already working in the field and those considering a career change.
Through open university studies accessible to all, individuals can, for example, explore the sector, while current professionals can flexibly enhance their expertise, especially in food expertise, quality management, and sustainable development.
Fish processing companies will quickly gain access to new skills and innovation capacity through practical work included in the new education programmes and through joint RDI projects.
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