15.2.4
Educational Programmes on Ecosystems
1. Purpose
This policy formalizes the University of Thessaly’s commitment to designing, implementing, and disseminating educational programmes on ecosystems for both academic and wider community audiences. Its purpose is to expand public understanding of ecosystem dynamics, biodiversity, and conservation through structured educational outreach and training that address the needs of local and national communities.
2. Scope
This policy applies to:
– Academic programmes, short courses, and seminars addressing natural ecosystems, wildlife, and habitat conservation.
– Outreach and lifelong-learning initiatives delivered by departments, research units, and university museums.
– Partnerships with schools, municipalities, NGOs, and regional agencies aimed at environmental education.
It covers both formal degree programmes and informal education activities targeting public awareness and citizen participation.
3. Definitions
– Ecosystem education: Learning activities that explore interactions between living organisms and their environments.
– Community outreach: University-led educational actions that engage non-academic audiences in knowledge transfer.
– Wild flora and fauna: Native plant and animal species existing in natural or semi-natural habitats.
4. Policy Statement
The University of Thessaly recognizes education as a primary instrument for promoting ecosystem awareness and conservation. The University will:
1. Develop and offer academic and non-formal educational programmes on ecosystems, biodiversity, and sustainable resource management.
2. Ensure that such programmes are accessible to community members, educators, and public agencies.
3. Encourage interdisciplinary approaches combining biology, environmental science, geography, and social studies.
4. Collaborate with local schools, regional authorities, and NGOs in designing ecosystem-based learning activities.
5. Integrate field-based experience, including observation of wild flora and fauna, into educational practice.
6. Disseminate educational materials digitally to support national environmental education efforts.
5. Implementation Responsibilities
The Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs, through the Sustainability Committee and the Lifelong Learning Center, is responsible for policy implementation. The Departments of the School of Agricultural Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Ichthyology and Aquatic Environment, Environmental Forestry, Wood Sciences and Design, Computer Science and Biomedical Informatics, Veterinary Medicine, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, and Architecture Engineering will lead programme design. Key actions include:
– Creating curricula and modules on ecosystem studies and conservation.
– Organizing public workshops and summer schools on ecosystem management.
– Establishing collaboration protocols with schools and regional education authorities.
– Encouraging student participation through service-learning and volunteering projects.
– Documenting educational outcomes for inclusion in the University’s Sustainability Report.
6. Monitoring and Reporting
Each academic unit offering ecosystem programmes shall submit an annual report summarizing:
– Number and scope of programmes delivered.
– Participant profiles and community impact.
– Partnerships formed with external institutions.
– Qualitative and quantitative learning outcomes.
The Sustainability Committee will integrate these reports into the University’s Annual Sustainability Report and provide data to ranking bodies under SDG 4 and SDG 15.
7. Review and Amendment
This policy shall be reviewed every three (3) years or earlier as needed to reflect changes in national education policy, environmental legislation, or institutional strategy. Amendments will be proposed by the Sustainability Committee and approved by the Senate.
8. References and Compliance Frameworks
– Hellenic Authority for Higher Education (HAHE) – ESG Standards
– UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 4 and SDG 15)
– Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)
– EU Biodiversity Strategy 2030
– Greek Law 3937/2011 on Biodiversity Conservation