Laying the Groundwork: SHINE’ Transnational Partner Meeting in Zaragoza
March 11–15, 2024
Zaragoza, Spain
SHINE officially launched with a five-day working meeting hosted by Mundus in Zaragoza. It was the first time all ten project partners — from Spain, Greece, the Netherlands, Nigeria, Ghana and Uganda — came together in person. The purpose: to understand the framework, meet the people behind each organisation, and start turning a project outline into something real.
What we focused on
Over the course of the week, teams worked through key elements of the project:
• Management and coordination
Roles, decision-making, internal rules, reporting periods and digital tools were introduced, led by Mundus. The management plan was discussed and is scheduled for release at the end of March.
• Risk and quality assurance
Pan-Atlantic University presented the Risk Management Plan, addressing potential challenges in implementation. AKMI introduced the Quality Plan to ensure that each work package follows consistent and transparent standards.
• Communication and visibility
The visual identity of SHINE, the dissemination strategy and shared digital assets were presented by Mundus. The first version of the Communication & Dissemination Plan is also on track for release this month.
• Research and strategic planning (WP2)
Led by INCLUDE, the session explored current green skill needs in Africa, energy access gaps, and the methodology for conducting national research and stakeholder mapping.
• Capacity building for African VET staff (WP3)
Zubigune Fundazioa introduced the structure of the training for African VET trainers. The discussion focused on key dimensions: solar technology, digital skills and entrepreneurship.
• Curriculum development and piloting (WP4)
AKMI and Pan-Atlantic University shared the approach for designing a hands-on solar training programme. African VET schools presented their existing curricula and needs. The goal: co-create a modular, practical programme for students across Ghana, Nigeria and Uganda.
A meeting shaped by collaboration
There was room for structure — and space for insight. Discussions were detailed, but also responsive to context. Beyond the agenda, participants shared national realities, expectations and local priorities that will shape how SHINE unfolds in each country.
To close the week, a workshop led by sustainability expert Natalia Conejo explored how regenerative and circular economy principles can be adapted to SHINE’s goals.
What’s next
The first field activities are already in motion:
Study visit to Nigeria: April 15–19, 2024
Study visit to Uganda: June 4–8, 2024
Study visit to Ghana: July 15–19, 2024
Work is also progressing on the research deliverables and the first modules for the teacher training programme.
SHINE is a collaborative process. Zaragoza set the stage — not only with structure and strategy, but with the kind of dialogue that makes cross-continental work meaningful and productive.
You can access the full Multimedia Report of the meeting here, including photos, presentations and links to session materials.