The BioGov.net project is strategically focused on establishing an innovative governance model for bioeconomy training and skills development. Its overarching objective is to facilitate better-informed decision-making processes, promote social engagement among all stakeholders, and foster the uptake of sustainable innovations within the bioeconomy.
To achieve this, BioGov.net has outlined specific objectives that address key aspects of the bioeconomy education and governance strategy.
Gathering and Assessing Best Practices
One of the foundational steps of the BioGov.net project is the collection and assessment of best practices and case studies related to education, training, and skills development within the bioeconomy. By analyzing successful instances from various regions, the project aims to identify key elements of success, their replicability, and their alignment with regional contexts. This process takes into account local capacities, opportunities, barriers, and potentials, ensuring that the identified practices can be effectively integrated into regional bioeconomy goals and expectations.
The expected outcome includes a compilation of identified best practices and case studies, a comprehensive assessment, and the identification of regional capacities, opportunities, barriers, and potentials across eight partnering EU regions.
Building a Collaborative Network
Creating a network of stakeholders is central to BioGov.net’s strategy. This network brings together research institutions, education and training organizations, policymakers, bio-system industries, businesses, and citizens in the form of local communities of practice.
Operating at the regional level, this collaborative effort aims to achieve multiple objectives:
- Increase awareness and engagement among all stakeholders related to bio-systems and their governance.
- Provide valuable input for assessing key elements required for skills building in the bioeconomy and capacity building for bio-systems.
- Offer feedback on training concepts and methodological approaches.
- Validate training and mentoring guidelines and governance models for broader adoption.
- Catalyze social innovation within the existing bioeconomy support system.
The anticipated outcomes include a clear definition of regional needs and expectations, addressing factors like local feedstock, governance barriers, minority inclusion, and training requirements for bio-systems. Additionally, the network will identify skills necessary for novel business models and related social measures that promote responsible behaviour in various spheres.
Crafting Tailored Guidelines
Building upon the insights gained from best practices and the collaborative network, BioGov.net aims to develop comprehensive guidelines for training and mentoring programs specific to European regions. These guidelines are tailored to address the unique characteristics and challenges of local bio-systems, regulations, and policies. The flexibility of the delivery model ensures that these guidelines can be effectively implemented in diverse contexts.
The expected outcome involves the creation of guidelines that equip individuals in targeted European regions with the knowledge and skills required to thrive in the bioeconomy, especially within bio-based sectors.
Validation and Calibration
The final phase of the BioGov.net project involves the validation and calibration of the developed training and mentoring guidelines. Ensuring the representativeness of the entire value chain, as well as considering territorial, youth, and gender dimensions, is paramount. This step guarantees that the guidelines align with the broader EU bioeconomy strategy while accounting for the diversity of actors and contexts.
In conclusion, the BioGov.net project exemplifies the European Union’s commitment to shaping a sustainable and thriving bioeconomy. By establishing an innovative governance model for training and skills development, BioGov.net aims to equip Europe with the necessary tools and knowledge to navigate the complexities of the bioeconomy. With its focus on stakeholder collaboration, best practice assessment, and localized guidelines, the project lays the groundwork for a prosperous and responsible bio-based future.
Author: Liina Vaher, Civitta Eesti AS
