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The BioBeo Project, funded by Horizon Europe, has recently made strides towards innovating circular bioeconomy education with its innovative BioBeo Blended Intensive Programme (BIP). BIP is an integral output of the BioBeo project offering a fresh approach to fostering engagement in bioeconomy policy-making among youths and citizens.
The Aim of the BioBeo Blended Intensive Programme
Dr Máire Nic an Bhaird and Dr Laoise Ní Chléirigh, both from Maynooth University, Ireland, spearheaded the development of the BioBeo Blended Intensive Programme (BIP). Their initiative brought together students from University College Dublin, Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences, and Odisee University of Applied Sciences. The BIP aimed to deepen participants’ understanding of bioeconomy concepts and facilitate the dissemination of knowledge. This comprehensive programme included pre- and post-research elements, allowing students to delve into bioeconomy concepts before and after the main learning sessions.
The European BioBeo Festival
These sessions, spanning eight days, provided immersive, in-person learning experiences. The culmination of their efforts was the European BioBeo Festival, held in Brussels on March 15, 2024. The schedule of the BIP was crafted to provide participants with a comprehensive, hands-on learning experience. Activities ranged from forest bathing conducted by Katriina Kilpi from Bos+ to consultations on bioeconomy led by esteemed speakers such as Dr. Evelyn Reinmuth from the University of Hohenheim. Participants also engaged in workshops on integrating bioeconomy content into educational settings, and interactive sessions on biodiversity exploration.
The BIP also featured an interactive, in-person workshop demonstrating hands-on, active learning techniques for student teachers. Dr Judit Horgas from the International Parents Association led this session, aimed at equipping participants with practical skills to effectively communicate the bioeconomy concept.
The BioBeo Bioeconomy Festival
One of the highlights of the programme was the BioBeo Bioeconomy Festival which was held in Brussels on the 15th March 2024 led by academic Bart Hempen and a team at Odisee University with input from BioBeo partners,participants engaged in reflective sessions, simulated panel discussions, and even created videos for the EU Bioeconomy Changemakers Festival. These activities fostered a deeper understanding of bioeconomy principles and encouraged active participation in shaping the future of bioeconomy education.
Key Takeaways from the BioBeo Blended Intensive Programme:
- Enhanced understanding of circular bioeconomy concepts.
- Practical strategies for integrating bioeconomy content into educational settings.
- Improved ability to engage children, families, and communities in bioeconomy learning.
- Hands-on experience through guided tours, nature retreats, and biodiversity exploration.
- Opportunities for networking and collaboration with peers and experts in the field.
The BioBeo Blended Intensive Programme empowered participants to become advocates for sustainable practices and champions of circular bioeconomy education. Through this innovative initiative, the BioBeo Project Consortium provided a meaning contribution towards the achievement of a more informed and engaged society, ready to tackle the challenges of the future.
Do you want to know more about BioBeo? Read on!
The BioBeo Festival in Brussels
