AFISHE Project’s 7th Meeting at the Armenian National Agrarian University (ANAU)

5–7 November 2025 | Yerevan, Armenia

From November 5–7, the Armenian National Agrarian University hosted the 7th AFISHE Project Meeting, bringing together partners from Armenia, Ukraine, Portugal, Slovakia, and Croatia to review achievements, share progress, and plan the project’s final phase.

The meeting opened with warm welcome addresses from Rector of ANAU Hrachya Zakoyan, Rector of SNAU Ihor Kovalenko, and Project coordinator Garegin Hambardzumyan.

They emphasized the importance of international cooperation in promoting sustainable aquaculture and fishery education, aligning with the European Green Deal and supporting the development of eco-friendly food systems in the region.

Highlights of Project Progress

Project Coordinator Garegin Hambardzumyan presented the main achievements of AFISHE — from curriculum modernization and new teaching materials to laboratory establishment and cross-border collaboration.

WP2: Preparation – Presented by Larysa Kalachevska (SNAU)

She shared the results of extensive benchmarking and stakeholder consultations that shaped new curricula in aquaculture and fisheries. The process ensured alignment with national frameworks and industry needs, producing a 500-page report guiding curriculum reform.

WP3: Human Resources – Yuliia Hrokhovska (NUWEE) outlined training programs held at EU universities and partner institutions, enhancing staff competencies in modern teaching methods, lab operation, and student-centered learning.

WP4: Infrastructure – Arusyak Harutyunyan (ISEC NAS RA) reported the establishment of four modern laboratories across Armenia and Ukraine. Equipped with 92 new instruments, these labs now serve both education and applied research, strengthening links between academia and industry.

WP5: Capacity Development – Augusto Faustino (U.PORTO) presented new teaching materials created in Armenian and Ukrainian, fully digital. Newly piloted Master’s programs in aquaculture and fishery are already underway at ANAU-ISEC NAS RA, SNAU and NUWEE.

WP6: Quality Assurance – Radovan Kasarda (SUA) confirmed that all deliverables meet Erasmus+ standards, with activities rated “good” or “excellent” by participants.

WP7: Impact & Dissemination – Jospi Mikuš (UNIDU) showcased the project’s wide visibility through publications, events, social media, and newsletters, ensuring transparency and outreach across Europe.

Signing of Agreements

A significant milestone was the signing of Memoranda of Understanding among all partner institutions, paving the way for future collaboration and potential double/joint degree programs.

Science Meets Practice

The participants attended a panel discussion led by Dr. Bardukh Gabrielyan (SCZHE), exploring the intersection of aquaculture research, policy, and industry. Experts shared insights on biodiversity protection, crayfish conservation, and sustainable fish farming innovations.

Final Report and Future Outlook

The last day focused on finalizing the project’s comprehensive report and financial statements. Partners also reflected on lessons learned and discussed opportunities for new Erasmus+ initiatives, ensuring the continuation of AFISHE’s strong network in aquaculture education and research.

The AFISHE Project continues to empower universities and researchers to build a sustainable future for aquaculture and fishery and not only.