SEA-EU Governing Week 2025

The latest SEA-EU Governing Week took place between the 25th and 28th November 2025, bringing together the nine partner universities of the European University of the Seas (SEA-EU Alliance). Around 100 representatives gathered at the Parthenope University of Naples for a series of discussions dedicated to shaping the Alliance’s future. The UM representation included Rector, Prof. Alfred J. Vella; the Pro-Rector of Strategic Planning and Sustainability, Prof. Valerie Sollars; the Rector’s Delegate, Prof. Alan Deidun; the Senior Manager of the SEA-EU Office at the University of Malta, Ms Maria Grima Calleja; the Project Manager of the SEA-EU Office at the University of Malta, Ms Fernanda Giraldo Guzman; and the Project Officer of the SEA-EU Office at the University of Malta, Ms Tazin Akter.

As we head into 2026, the alliance continues to maintain connections across Europe, reinforcing its values and ensuring long-term sustainability through the establishment of the new SEA-EU Association. This milestone was led by Dr Angele Attard Chetcuti, Legal Director of the University of Malta. The SEA-EU Governing Week brought together governance and academic stakeholders through a series of meetings. A key highlight was the introduction of the participation of Deans from Faculties of the nine partner institutions. Prof. Inġ. Carl J. Debono from the Faculty of Information & Communication Technology and Prof. Noellie Brockdorff from the Faculty of Media and Knowledge Sciences, took part in the discussions for Deans, held in Naples during the Governing Board week. This participation reflects ongoing efforts to broaden the involvement of staff within the SEA-EU Alliance. Other meetings during the week were held for the Quality and Ethics Committee and the Quality Support Unit. Senior Executive Dr Jacqueline Vanhear and Prof. Leonie Baldacchino of the Edward de Bono Institute for Creative Thinking and Innovation attended the meetings for these boards, respectively.

The SEA-EU Student Council too included UM representation through KSU Student and International Affairs Officer Martina Debono and Vice President for Internal Affairs Jan Proschek. During the week, in addition to attending the relevant meetings, they signed key documents, including the updated Student Council Bylaws in Naples.

SEA-EU’s six-month rotating leadership drives its success by ensuring every member helps shape its strategy. This inclusive model incorporates diverse coastal perspectives, providing an equitable framework to navigate 21st-century environmental and educational challenges. The SEA-EU Governing Week marked an important moment, as partner institutions signed the papers to form the SEA-EU Association. In doing so, the University affirmed a legacy of collaboration and secured its place within the European Universities Initiative.