PROJECT

BIObec aims to build bridges between the bio-based industry and the education system by interlinking universities, innovation labs, and R&D centres with industrial actors and regions.

In order to achieve this, the project proposes a holistic framework that merges the traditional idea of an education centre, with that of a knowledge hub.

BIObec will establish the framework for the development of  multi-level Bio-Based Education Centres (BBECs) to act as knowledge hubs bridging the gaps between academic institutions, students, innovation entities and policy makers. Likewise, the BBECs will be flexible enough to answer the actual and future needs of the industry and surrounding ecosystem at local, regional and national levels.

BIO-BASED EDUCATION CENTRES (BBECs)

The BBECs concept will be designed according to the framework of different EU regions and will be characterized by:

Collaboration.

Multi-level networking of actors, centres and education.

Flexibility and modularity to answer European complexity.

Industry and education connection strengthened.

Digitisation.

Innovative educational formats.

OBJECTIVES

Align the needs for skills and their availability through consistent interactions between the bio-based industry and educational institutions at local, regional, national and European levels.
Prevent skills gaps in the bio-based industry.
Maintain industrial activities and boost jobs and income for local communities.
Generate education and learning opportunities for community members and increase their employability.
Provide early insight into career opportunities for graduates at vocational and university levels.
Offer opportunities to educate a wide range of stakeholders on bio-based activities and sustainability.

STAKEHOLDERS INVOLVED

Graphic with stakeholders: Industrial clusters and educational providers, Regions and Bioregions, Public Bodies (Governments), NGOs and Associations of Primary Producers, Multipliers, Other

IMPACT

Impulse the creation of other programmes of education and collaboration.
Boost bioeconomy education at international level.
Contribute to enhance a more sustainable and circular society.
Unlock the full potential and competitiveness of the EU bioeconomy.

METHODOLOGY

Image showing the project's work packages
To achieve the objectives of BIObec, the project has been partitioned into six work packages: 

  • WP1 is focused on creating the BIObec framework that will identify the main BIObec actors, develop the project network and carry out a mapping and analysis exercise.
  • WP2 will be devoted to defining the operational specifications of the Bio-based Education Centres (BBECs) through co-creation.
  • WP3, will assess the feasibility and sustainability of the BBECs.
  • WP4 will pursue the roll-out and replication of the BBECs.
  • WP5 will ensure the project is disseminated and communicated properly to all the pertinent audiences, and that all the relevant stakeholders are engaged.
  • Finally, WP6, deals with project management and coordination.