What motivated you to get involved in the SEED project?
Our motivation to get involved in the SEED project is primarily driven by the opportunity to participate in an international collaboration that addresses some of the most pressing challenges of the future—namely, the energy transition and sustainable energy education. The SEED project offers a unique platform for knowledge transfer between different countries and regions, which we find particularly fascinating. The chance to learn from the best practices of other countries and implement this knowledge at the regional level is a significant added value. Another important aspect is the project’s focus on topics that are not only relevant globally but also have a direct impact on regional transformation. The SEED project promotes practical education in sustainable energy, which is essential for developing a future-proof, fossil-free society. Its emphasis on regional innovation and adaptation to specific local needs provides us with the opportunity to make tangible, sustainable changes and actively contribute to tackling the energy challenges of the future.
What are your expectations for the project?
Our expectations for the SEED project are twofold. First, we hope that the project will not only successfully establish the regional Centres of Vocational Excellence (CoVEs) but also ensure that these centres become sustainable and impactful entities for the long term. The goal is for them to serve as key drivers of innovation and educational excellence in sustainable energy, creating a lasting legacy beyond the project’s duration. Additionally, we look forward to the development of an international learning community. It’s crucial for the project to foster cross-border collaboration, enabling partners from different regions to share knowledge, best practices, and experiences. This international network should extend beyond the project timeline, providing a foundation for continued cooperation and growth, and ultimately contributing to the global energy transition.
3. How do you think the project can contribute to developing the regional CoVE?
From what we have learned so far, developing a regional CoVE is a process that requires time and consistent effort. Building a strong foundation to collaborate with regional stakeholders can only be achieved through continuity and sustained engagement. The SEED project has provided us with the opportunity to dedicate that time, which has led to the establishment of new contacts, initiatives, and partnerships—all aligned with a shared vision for sustainable energy education. Through this project, we’ve been able to strengthen regional networks, deepen cooperation, and foster innovation by connecting educational institutions, industry players, and policymakers. These new collaborations are essential in ensuring that the regional CoVE not only thrives but evolves in line with both local needs and global trends. Ultimately, the project has helped solidify the CoVE’s role as a central hub for vocational excellence in sustainable energy within the region.
What do you think would be the most rewarding experiences you could have as a partner in the SEED project?
As the leader of Work Package 4 – the Good Practices – one of the most rewarding experiences for us would be to see that the good practices introduced by the regions have made a tangible impact, both on the project itself and on the regions in the long term. The implementation of these good practices not only strengthens the project’s outcomes but also fosters deeper connections between regions, as they share similar structures and goals. What is particularly rewarding is the long-term potential for continued collaboration on these shared activities. The SEED project has demonstrated how valuable knowledge transfer can be, and it highlights the incredible range of excellent initiatives out there that can be replicated and expanded. Knowing that the work done within SEED will continue to benefit the regions and their stakeholders beyond the project period is truly fulfilling, and it emphasizes the power of collaboration in driving innovation and positive change.
What do you think are the biggest challenges you might face in the SEED project?
One of the biggest challenges we might face in the SEED project is the time required to build a truly self-sustaining network. As we’ve seen with other successful best practice examples of self-sustaining networks and public-private partnerships, such structures require more time and continuous effort than the four years planned for the SEED project. Building strong, long-term relationships with stakeholders and ensuring that the network is fully operational and effective takes time to nurture. However, we’ve accepted this challenge and are adapting our approach to focus on laying a solid foundation. By prioritizing the development of trust, shared goals, and consistent engagement with stakeholders, we are confident that the network will continue to grow and thrive beyond the project’s duration. It’s about setting the groundwork for sustainability, even if the full impact may only be realized after the project ends.
How do you think the project can benefit the local economy?
The objectives of the SEED project are strategically aligned to enhance the workforce for the energy sector, which is of great importance for regions like the Ruhr area, known for its industrial strength. The region is home to a large number of energy-related companies, such as suppliers, as well as heavy industries and high polluters. This unique situation presents a significant opportunity for the project to drive meaningful change. By collaborating closely with the local economy, the SEED project can play a pivotal role in aligning industries with sustainability standards, which is crucial for achieving the energy transition. Through educational initiatives focused on clean energy and sustainable practices, the project will help upskill the local workforce, equipping them with the competencies needed to thrive in a green economy. Moreover, by integrating change management strategies, we can support industries in transitioning towards more sustainable operations, fostering long-term economic growth that is both environmentally responsible and economically viable. Ultimately, the project can catalyze a shift towards a cleaner, more sustainable economy in the region, driving innovation and positioning local industries as leaders in the energy transition.
In what ways do you think the SEED project can help to promote cultural understanding?
The SEED project’s emphasis on collaboration and communication creates an environment where cultural understanding can flourish, making it a powerful tool for building lasting international relationships, especially through face-to-face conversation and conversation-based workshops.
What does the term “SEED Community” mean?
The term “SEED Community” refers to a collective of individuals, organizations, and institutions united by a shared commitment to a common goal—creating a more sustainable future. This community thrives on the principle of leveraging each partner’s unique strengths while also learning from one another. By working together, we can drive innovation, share best practices, and develop new solutions to the pressing challenges of the energy transition.