Sustainable and inclusive aquatic food systems: exploring youth opportunities in the Blue Economy
Photo © Wietse Jongsma - Unsplash
Online
Sustainable and inclusive aquatic food systems: exploring youth opportunities in the Blue Economy
9–28 Novembre 2026
Presentazione del corso
This course on the blue economy and youth in the South West Indian Ocean (SWIO) provides a comprehensive exploration of the sustainable blue economy concept within the context of African SWIO and emphasizes the critical role of youth in shaping sustainable ocean management and economic development. This course will highlight the crucial role of youth in advocating for sustainable practices, fostering entrepreneurship, and promoting social and environmental justice in the SWIO. Through interactive discussions, case studies, and practical exercises, participants will explore strategies to empower and engage youth in driving the sustainable development of their coastal communities. By the forum's conclusion, participants will be equipped with the knowledge and tools to harness the potential of youth in SWIO, nurturing their leadership and fostering a sustainable and inclusive blue economy that benefits present and future generations.
Chi si iscrive a questo corso?
The forum is designed for: (i) policy-makers and government officials that aim to designing and implementing local, national and regional strategies for the transition to blue economies, (ii) employers' and workers' representatives and (2) interested youth.
Description
Despite the significant contributions of small-scale fisheries and aquaculture to livelihoods and food security, structural issues of poverty, unemployment, vulnerabilities, and lack of credit persist among SSF workers and their communities, especially in coastal and fisheries-dependent areas (Dias et al., 2023; FAO, 2019). Income levels remain heterogeneous and unpredictable throughout the year. The fisheries sector tends to be poorly planned and regulated, underfunded, and often neglected (March et al., 2022).
Additionally, participation of local communities in high-value species value chains is often limited, with opportunities concentrated in the hands of external companies and traders. Youth, women, older people, and other vulnerable groups face barriers to accessing training, finance, markets, and technology. Social protection programs that could support SSF in times of uncertainties and shocks are usually not available, particularly in many developing countries.
Developing countries and small island developing states face uniquely significant challenges, as many depend heavily on ocean-based resources and are overly exposed to the consequences of ocean and coastal degradation and climate change. There is vast opportunity in moving to more circular approaches and helping achieve the green energy transition while ensuring safeguards to protect and conserve the environment.
Objectives
This course examines how aquatic food systems can effectively address interconnected challenges across diverse contexts, exploring the principles, frameworks, and practical approaches that enable sustainable and inclusive development.
The course covers the following topics:
- The sustainable blue economy and aquatic food systems.
- Small-scale fisheries and aquaculture production systems.
- Practical opportunities for youth, women, and vulnerable groups across the value chain.
- Strengthening value chains: from harvest to market.
- Post-harvest handling, processing techniques, and infrastructure solutions.
- Circular economy approaches and resource efficiency.
- Cross-sectoral integration for sustainable food systems.
