Summer University of Samothraki 2016

SCOPE

The Summer University seeks to provide a high quality education to post graduate students and young scientists from European countries with a special focus on south East Europe (Balkan)countries on Integrated Management practices of Biosphere Reserves and various other categories of protected areas (National Parks, Areas Natura 2000, etc.)

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The main aim of the Summer University is to deepen the understanding of the value of Biosphere Reserves, as "laboratories" and "catalysts" of Sustainable Development. More specifically, it aims is to highlight the rich natural and cultural diversity and heritage of the island of Samothraki and support the proposal for its inclusion in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves (UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Programme, MAB/UNESCO).

PARTNERSHIP

The Summer University provides an innovative multidisciplinary and experiential intensive 12 days training that is designed with the cooperation and synergy of Research Institution and Networks, Universities, National and Local Authorities, NGOs, as well as key UNESCO branches.

METHODS

The summer school combines plenary and group work. The trainees will attend daily a 2-hour plenary, where the most important issues will be presented in the form of lectures. They will then be distributed in smaller groups in order to follow, in parallel, the two complementary directions of the Summer University (Course A + B, see title); undertake intensive guided group work and/or research under the guidance of the invited professors and experts. By the end of the Summer University, the Participants will synthesize their work in the form of presentations including recommendations for the Sustainable Management of Biosphere Reserves, using as a study case the island of Samothraki. In course B, two entire days are to be dedicated to the GWP Toolbox, and key lessons learned from its application around the world.

CERTIFICATION & CREDITS (COURSE A + B)

Participants successfully attending the Summer University will be awarded a certificate of attendance which will provide them with 6 ECTS.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION (COURSE A + B)

The island of Samothraki is located 25 nautical miles south of the coastal city Alexandroupolis, the only entry point to the island. There are daily ferries connecting Alexandroupolis with Samothraki. The trip lasts 2 hours and 15'. Usually, there is only one Boat daily, so be aware to be in the Port of Alexandroupolis, on time. For a ferry schedule visit: http://www.saos.gr. You can reach Alexandroupolis by plane changing in Athens; alternatively, you can fly to Thessaloniki or Kavala and continue by bus.

ACCOMODATION (COURSE B)

Our provision is for trainees to be hosted in a hotel (in shared rooms of 2-3 people). But if you are a Camping Lover (and happy to bring along your tent, sleeping bag, etc.), you can choose to stay in the Municipal Camping instead (there will be daily pick-ups from both points, Course A participants will be hosted in the camping) (http://www.samothraki.gr/site/municipal-camping/). 

PARTICIPANTS PROFILE (COURSE B):

Participants, estimated at 70-75 in total (Course A ~45 + Course B~30). Course A trainees are post graduate students. Course B trainees will comprise a mix of:

• Postgraduate students of all relevant disciplines from: Natural Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Social Sciences and Management, Education and Humanities, (from the partner universities and not only).
• Young scientists working in Management Bodies mainly of Biosphere Reserves and/or other designated areas, etc.
• Young Scientists from various bodies employed in Water Resources Management.

FEES (COURSE B)

Thanks to the support provided by the sponsors of the Summer University, no inscription fees will be requested.

The organization will cover accommodation in shared rooms, local transportation, half board (breakfast and one meal), an official dinner, a one day scientific boat tour and a two-day trekking tour combined with overnight free camping at the springs of Fonias (Karya), one of the main perennial streams of the island.

REGISTRATION

Course A registrations are closed.

For Course B ONLY INVITED PARTICIPANTS (through the participating Universities, BR Management Bodies, GWP officers etc)  can take part. DEADLINE for Registrations 25/06/2016.
However, application forms are treated on a first-come-first-served basis, so if you are interested to participate apply as early as possible. 

 ORGANISATION