Students explored protected areas and species recovery in Valencia as part of a Minor course

From 27 to 31 October 2025, 39 students from EU-CONEXUS partner universities took part in the on-site component of the Minor course titled “Protected Areas and Recovery of Species” at the Catholic University of Valencia (UCV), Spain. The activities were coordinated by Alejandro Molera, Ph.D., UCV professor of the Bachelor’s Degree in Marine Sciences.

As part of the EU-CONEXUS Minor in Coastal Development and Sustainable Maritime Tourism, the course offers a multidisciplinary approach to understanding Natural Protected Areas and the tools used for their conservation in international, national, and regional contexts. Students explore how these areas are managed and planned, learn what criteria are needed to classify marine protected areas, and gain familiarity with the main international protection frameworks. They also learn about species recovery strategies, the functioning of recovery centres, methods for assessing the degree of threat to habitats and species, and the environmental and socio-economic impacts of these threats.

Throughout the week, students were exposed to a combination of theory and practice through a variety of academic and field-based activities. The programme began on Monday with a welcome session and ice-breaking activities at UCV’s Santa Úrsula campus, helping students from different universities connect and collaborate.

On Tuesday and Wednesday, participants went on field trips to Marjal del Moro and Albufera de Valencia – two emblematic protected areas. There, they observed real-life examples of ecosystem management and conservation practices.

Thursday was dedicated to individual and group project work, allowing participants to develop their ideas and apply the knowledge they acquired during the week. The course concluded on Friday with a seminar and farewell session led by Dyana Vitale, Ph.D., from AIMPLAS, the Plastics Technology Institute. This session concluded the enriching academic and intercultural experience.

Back in their home countries, students will continue with the online part of the course until the end of the semester.

The on-site mobilities of EU-CONEXUS Minor programmes offer a unique opportunity for students to interact face-to-face with teachers, employers and peers, experience the host university’s environment, and enhance their learning through field visits and intercultural exchange.