Straßer, Fiona-Elaine, Köstner, Nicole, Eparkhina, Dina, Noronha, Anthony and Ortiz, Veronica (2023) Recommendations on engaging with the next generation of stakeholders. . EuroSea Deliverable, D8.11 . EuroSea, 65 pp. DOI 10.3289/eurosea_d8.11.

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Abstract

This report provides an overview of EuroSea's initiatives focused on engaging the next generation of ocean observing and forecasting stakeholders. Many activities took place, including delivering workshops, presenting the EuroSea itinerant exhibition, collaborating with the WASCAL Floating University and the SEA-EU inter-university initiative, supporting the international Ocean Observers Initiative, and much more.
Engaging the next generation of stakeholders in meaningful discussions and innovative projects is essential to ensure future-oriented intergenerational collaboration. Yet, this is often an overlooked aspect of public engagement within the Horizon 2020 landscape as it requires engagement techniques specifically tailored to reach the young generation. Within the framework of Horizon 2020, the European Union's research and innovation funding program, public engagement traditionally targets a diverse range of stakeholders, including researchers, policymakers, industry representatives, civil society organizations, NGOs, and citizens. While these efforts are crucial for fostering inclusive and transparent dialogue, targeted initiatives directed towards the younger generation and early-career ocean professionals need to be expanded. It is important to recognize the concerns, unique perspectives, and aspirations of young individuals who will inherit the outcomes of today's research and innovation. Dedicating resources to engage with the next generation is vital to ensure their active involvement in shaping their future and addressing global challenges such as the sustainability of ocean observing, monitoring, and forecasting.
EuroSea has recognized the importance of fostering a deeper understanding of ocean observing and forecasting among the younger generation. This deliverable and the many activities feeding into it are a testament to EuroSea's commitment to this cause.
This report focuses on the lessons learnt from a diverse array of activities engaging the next generation of ocean observing and forecasting stakeholders, demonstrating the extensive range of possibilities for involving the younger generation. It underscores the importance of tailoring approaches to different age groups, from school children to university graduates and adapting engagement strategies to their varying interests and life stages. Every experience—even the ones that did not turn out as expected—has shown to be beneficial, and it is important to share lessons learnt and identify best practices while expanding these kinds of initiatives.
EuroSea's dedication to engaging the next generation of stakeholders is a significant step in fostering inter-generational dialogue and promoting blue skills and knowledge sharing. Valuable lessons have been learnt from the EuroSea engagement activities and provide guidance for future initiatives aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of our ocean among the younger generation and engaging them in conversations that impact their future on this planet.

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