The Winter School took place from 26 to 30 January 2026 at the EU-CONEXUS partner Catholic University of Valencia (UCV), bringing together around 60 students and three staff members from across the Alliance for an intensive week of international learning and academic exchange.
The programme focused on fostering innovative and sustainable solutions for coastal resilience through business strategy, legislative frameworks, and climate-responsive planning tools.
Three micro-credentials were offered as part of the academic programme, and each student selected two according to their personal interests. This flexible structure enabled participants to design a tailored learning pathway while engaging with topics not typically available at their home institutions.
One of the programmeโs key strengths was its international teaching dimension. Professors from three partner universities joined the programme, providing students with access to diverse academic perspectives, specialised expertise, and innovative teaching approaches.
Beyond the classroom, the programme also offered a rich cultural experience. Participants took part in a traditional paella workshop, explored Valenciaโs historic city centre through a guided visit, and experienced the Mediterranean coastal environment firsthand.
More than an academic event, the Winter School fostered a dynamic international environment in which students and lecturers exchanged ideas, built professional networks, and deepened their knowledge in areas aligned with their interests and future career aspirations.
