Training of the non-teaching staff at the National University of Water and Environmental Engineering (NUWEE)

The main objective of the training is to prepare qualified personnel to work in the Integrated Multi-Tropical Aquaculture (IMTA) laboratory established at NUWEE as part of this project. The trainers are experts in the field of aquaculture and fish farming: Anastasia Horetska and Oleksiy Lemeshko from “Laursen Aquaculture” LLC – maintenance of water quality and maintenance of laboratory equipment; Ivan Targonii, individual entrepreneur – training on setting up and operating production processes in the fish feed production line. The training lasted 10 days – from 21 October to 1 November 2024. The classes were attended by NUWEE teachers and non-teaching staff who will be involved in the activities of the IMTA laboratory.

During the first week, the participants gained insights into the technical equipment of recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) and water quality parameters important for aquaculture. Anastasia Horetska led sessions on water quality monitoring, general challenges and disease prevention in catfish (Clarias gariepinus) farming. Participants learned how to operate automatic fish feeding systems, programme automatic feeders and use fertilisers in aquaponics with RAS. The programme also included thermoregulation, aeration and water circulation with hands-on training on pumps, blowers and temperature control devices.

The second week focussed on feed production, with participants learning about the installation and operation of an extruded feed production line. Ivan Targonii led discussions on automation, power connections and feed recipe formulation. The practical training emphasised the use of local raw materials to produce feeds that comply with IMTA principles. A visit to “Laursen Aquaculture” LLC provided a practical example of RAS operations and demonstrated modern equipment and European production standards. The participants observed the rearing and feeding of catfish and gained valuable insights into the practise of intensive aquaculture.

The programme concluded with practical exercises on preventive maintenance of pumps and multi-stage biological treatment of recycled water. This innovative biotechnology, developed as part of the IMTA concept, enables sustainable aquaculture by utilising by-products of fish metabolism for the rearing of feed organisms. The skills and knowledge acquired will enhance NUWEE’s education and research programmes and support the development of integrated aquaculture practises.