Twin Transition · Maritime Higher Education
Green & digital skills for the future of maritime
TWINMED is a three-year project, coordinated by the University of Patras, that promotes the Twin Transition in maritime higher education in Tunisia and Morocco, developing the green and digital skills of future seafarers and maritime professionals through a new MSc, AR/VR-based training and smart maritime solutions.
The project
Steering maritime education through the twin transition
The global maritime industry is undergoing a massive transformation driven by strict environmental regulations and rapid technological evolution. By addressing the critical skills gap in the South Mediterranean region, TWINMED equips future seafarers and professionals with the essential green and digital competencies needed to meet modern international standards.
Our Vision
To direct the twin transition, combining green and digital innovation within the maritime industry. To achieve this, the project focuses on equipping future seafarers and maritime professionals with critical “twin skills”.
Why it matters
Thematic Pillars
Greener shipping
Sustainable practices, cleaner technologies and climate adaptation are becoming core competences for maritime professionals.
Smart, connected ships
Automation, IoT, AI and immersive AR/VR simulation are changing how ships are operated and how crews are trained.
A skills gap in the South Mediterranean
Maritime curricula in Tunisia and Morocco need updating, with modern labs, trained educators and stronger links to industry.
What we do
Key Activities
Four strands of work bring new curricula, technology and partnerships to maritime higher education in Tunisia and Morocco.
New MSc programme
Designing and implementing a specialised Master of Science programme dedicated to the twin transition of the maritime industry.
AR/VR simulation labs
Integrating immersive Augmented and Virtual Reality methodologies to create high-tech simulation labs for future seafarers and maritime professionals.
Industry needs assessment
Assessing current industry needs across the South Mediterranean region to align training frameworks with international standards.
Cooperation ecosystems
Fostering cooperation between higher education institutions, policymakers and maritime stakeholders to build sustainable, future-ready learning ecosystems.
Expected impact
Measurable change by 2032
Results & resources
Open resources for maritime education
Throughout its implementation, TWINMED will produce a rich portfolio of open resources and practical outputs, made publicly available in multiple languages.
Main Deliverables
- Enhance the quality of HEIs in Morocco and Tunisia through collaboration and reform.
- Foster the green and digital skills of HEI staff and students for modern maritime trends.
- Modernise maritime education by integrating VR, AR and other innovative technologies.
- Improve resources for HEIs and build frameworks and collaborations in the maritime sector.
- Upskill teacher training and strengthen the relevance of HE for the labour market.
- Promote cooperation with industry and business representatives.
Consortium
Our Partners
Ten organisations from Greece, Germany, Italy, Tunisia and Morocco working together on the twin transition of maritime education.
Greece
Greece
Germany
Germany
Italy
Tunisia
Tunisia
Tunisia
Morocco
Morocco
Stay updated
News & Events
Want to get involved with TWINMED?
Get in touch with the consortium to learn more about the MSc programme, the AR/VR labs or cooperation opportunities.
