Launch of STORM, a SEA-EU joint programme

Every semester, students in SEA-EU programs study in several European countries and get a firsthand look at various cultures. They take on real-world challenges, study with classmates from around the world, and receive a joint European degree. This is more than just education; it's a transformative experience that develops perspectives and skills, preparing graduates for careers around the world while making lifelong memories along Europe's varied coastlines.

The Joint Master's Degree in Sustainability Transition for Organisations and Resilience Management (STORM) program, which began its first cohort in Brest this September and focuses on resilience management and sustainability transition, is a prime example. This course is designed to prepare managers to meet environmental and organisational challenges with strategic knowledge and adaptability, STORM’s innovative curriculum and international orientation enables students to develop the skills needed to lead sustainability transitions across industries and institutions.

Dr. Marguerite Camilleri, the local academic coordinator for this programme reported that “STORM Joint Master's programme, which focuses on equipping organisations for navigating the sustainability transition, is being offered by six SEA-EU partner universities from maritime cities across the EU. STORM is innovative pedagogically, organisationally and environmentally, and the UM is proud to be a partner in this initiative at a time when the sustainable blue economy is at the forefront of sustainability debates. The Joint degree is the fruit of years of planning and collaboration by colleagues at UM, particularly Prof. Godfrey Baldacchino, the SEA-EU Office, and colleagues in the Department of Policy, Politics and Governance within FEMA, as well as in the other partner universities.”

Hence, this course allows the training of students in how to help organisations manage challenges of this century. The students are equipped with knowledge on how to manage environmental sustainability, such as low carbon emissions, effective use of resources, and decreasing wastage. They are also taught how to identify potential threats early by analysing past mistakes and formulating strategies for responding to emerging crises. Organisations are also taught how to develop innovations in new ways of adapting, such as designing sustainable products and adopting clean technology.

This SEA-EU joint programme was developed through the collaboration of the Joint Programmes Committee and several offices and individuals across the University of Malta and partner institutions.