The 16th Annual EMUNI Conference

The 16th Annual EMUNI Conference took place on October 10th and 11th, 2024, in Piran, Slovenia, focusing on ancient hydrologic systems and water management in the Mediterranean region. Co-organized by Rencontres Internationales du Patrimoine Architecturel Méditerranéen (RIPAM), the National Institute of Oceanography and Applied Geophysics (OGS), and the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM), the conference featured two key segments.

The first was a high-level panel discussion titled “Higher Education as a Bridge between the Two Shores of the Mediterranean.” Moderated by Mouin Hamze, Chairperson of the EMUNI Management Board, the panel included prominent speakers such as Rado Bohinc, President of EMUNI University; Nasser Kamel, Secretary General of the Union for the Mediterranean; Maria Cristina Pedicchio, Vice Chairperson of the EMUNI Management Board; Luigia Melillo, Rector of Pegaso International; Alaa Abdelwahed Abdelbary, Vice President of the Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport; and Michele Civiero, President of Across the Mediterranean Sea. This discussion explored the crucial role of education in fostering regional collaboration in the mediterranean. 

Following the panel, the conference featured the International Scientific Conference Kick-off, showcasing keynote speakers including Mounir Ghribi, Director of Director, International Cooperation and Research Promotion, National Institute of Oceanography and Applied Geophysics OGS & Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence on Sustainable Blue Economy, EMUNI University Daniela Pittaluga, Part of the permanent committee of RIPAM and Professor at University of Genova; Octavi Quintana Trias, Director of the Secretariat at PRIMA  Khaled Abu Zeid, Senior Regional Water Resources Director at the Centre for Environment & Development for the Arab Region & Europe (CEDARE); and Alessandro Leto, Director of the Water Academy. The discussion highlighted the importance of addressing pressing challenges like water scarcity and water diplomacy, emphasizing the role of ancient hydrologic systems and sustainable water management practices.

Throughout the conference, keynote speakers were distinguished experts in water management and sustainability from esteemed institutions across the Mediterranean. Additionally, participants had the opportunity to enjoy a guided tour of Piran and visit the Sečovlje Salt Pans, where they learned about traditional water management techniques still in use today. This cultural experience significantly enhanced attendees’ understanding of the region’s water heritage and its relevance to contemporary resource management.