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Since 2014, the Asterousia Hybrid University, co-organised by the UNESCO Regional Bureau for Science and Culture in Europe and the Mediterranean Information Office for Environment, Culture and Sustainable Development (MIO-ECSDE), has been inspiring individuals to foster dialogue and collaboration. Its goal is to educate and enhance the capacity for fostering dialogue and encouraging large-scale collaboration amongst partakers. This initiative equips participants with the tools to transform biosphere reserves into living labs for sustainability.

In 2020, the Asterousia Hybrid University embraced a hybrid format, expanding its reach and allowing a broader international audience to benefit. This innovative approach has enriched learning opportunities by incorporating new topics and input from previous years and ongoing UN frameworks. The programme has influenced the lives of postgraduate students, educators, young scientists, and managers, particularly from South-East Europe and the Mediterranean, who are involved in biosphere reserves, Natura 2000 sites, and other key areas.

A variety of means were used to deliver the course, from video lectures by invited experts, to video-testimonies from Phase A, guidebooks, and interactive exercises. 

The experts discussed the development plan for the Asterousia Biosphere Reserve, the continuation of the Asterousia Hybrid University, and the importance of sustainable development. In emphasising the hybrid university's focus on sustainability and environmental issues, particularly water management, and the role of individuals, professionals, and communities in improving SDG 6, they in turn advocated for a more holistic approach to promoting sustainability. 

The meeting concluded with a discussion on the challenges of data management for policy improvement and the need for closer cooperation between knowledge holders and decision-makers.

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One of the key topics was water management challenges in Mediterranean islands and the role of effective partnerships in addressing these issues. Alexandros Kandarakis from GWP-Med shared insights on water replenishment projects, explaining the why-what-how of this process. He presented a practical example of a water replenishment project in Heraklion, Crete. After identifying the local problems and needs, a technical intervention was designed, relying on Non-Conventional Water Resources. Mr Kandarakis emphasised that awareness raising and education are, and should be, integral components of the process.

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Notably, the 2023-2024 course saw significant engagement: Phase A with 26 participants from 9 countries, including 13 from Greece and Phase B with 115 applicants, 58 active learners, 12 trainers, 25 countries, and 21 certificates awarded.

Participants expressed satisfaction with the course's structure and content. One participant shared the newfound knowledge, stating that: “Integrating water management ensures that we are more effective in our management. The water quality assurances should align with fishing and other extractive uses which should be in accordance with recreational uses. If the management comes from desperate entities, they need to collaborate and integrate all policies”.&�Բ�����;

The initiative continues to grow with support from multiple organisations - including the Region of Crete, Heraklion Development Agency, Association for the Protection of Asterousia, UNESCO Chair and Network on Sustainable Development Management and Education at the University of Athens (UoA), Greek National Committee of the MAB/UNESCO Programme, and MEdIES initiative and Global Water Partnership – Mediterranean (GWP-Med). By bringing together diverse perspectives and fostering collaboration, the Asterousia Hybrid University is making a significant impact on sustainability and water management education.

• Asterousia Hybrid University 2023: Water Management in Biosphere Reserves of the Mediterranean and beyond 
• Asterousia Hybrid University explores water management as a catalyst for sustainable development 
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