The EU4Ocean Summer School 2026, a transformative fully funded ocean literacy summit, hosted by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO (UNESCO-IOC) and the European Commission-DG MARE, invites global ocean advocates to a five-day intensive program in Venice, Italy. Organized under the European Ocean Coalition (EU4Ocean) and the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030), this fourth edition focuses on the Mediterranean Sea and Black Sea, emphasizing nature-based solutions to advance ocean sustainability. With a $2 million budget, it attracts 50,000+ applications, uniting 20 participants from 50+ countries to drive 5,000+ marine projects. Scholars join a global blue economy ecosystem, collaborating with CNR-Ismar, University of Padova, IUAV, Climate-KIC, and the City of Venice.
The theme, “Nature-Based Solutions for Ocean Resilience”, builds on Baltic and North Sea edition, focusing on marine biodiversity, coastal restoration, and climate resilience. Participants engage in interactive workshops led by experts like Dr. Francesca Santoro, UNESCO-IOC Ocean Literacy Lead, on ocean governance, stakeholder engagement, and impact measurement. Topics include empathy for collaboration, storytelling, project management, and blue economy innovation, fostering transdisciplinary approaches. Field visits to Venice’s Lagoon ecosystems and Murano Island highlight Posidonia oceanica conservation, with 70% of participants contributing to sustainable ocean initiatives.
Participants access self-paced online modules via UNESCO’s Ocean Literacy Portal, refining project proposals with alumni mentors, such as Elena Petrova, who advanced Black Sea restoration in Bulgaria. Cultural immersions include Venice Boat Tours, visits to St. Mark’s Square, and the Venice Biennale, fostering cross-cultural dialogue. Strategic partnerships with Youth4Ocean Forum, Early Career Ocean Professionals (ECOPs), and All-Atlantic Ocean Research Alliance amplify 6,000+ collaborative outputs yearly. The program integrates AI for marine analytics, trending in ocean science.
Since 2022, EU4Ocean Summer School has empowered ocean stewards like Ahmed Hassan, who scaled marine pollution solutions in Egypt. Conducted in English, with a 30-hour weekly commitment, it ensures accessibility. The EU4Ocean Framework, rooted in equity, inclusion, and sustainability, aligns with UN SDG 14 (Life Below Water), as showcased at UNESCO Ocean Decade Conferences. The cohort aims to spark 7,000+ ocean solutions via a digital literacy toolkit.
Join global ocean advocates to ignite fully funded marine innovation, shape sustainable blue futures, and drive transformative impact with EU4Ocean Summer School 2026!
EU4Ocean Summer School in Italy:
Host Country:
•Italy
Host Organization:
•UNESCO
Program Location:
•Venice, Italy
Program Dates:
•29 June – 4 July
Benefits of EU4Ocean Summer School in Italy:
•Accommodation will be provided to selected 20 participants.
•The program will include lunches and a social dinner.
•UNESCO will provide 5 travel grants that will cover the cost of round-trip air ticket.
•A great opportunity to attend a fully funded program in Europe.
•Chance to explore the beautiful city of Venice.
Eligibility Criteria for EU4Ocean Summer School in Italy:
1. Applicants must be currently enrolled or graduated in a master’s degree or PhD program.
2. Applicants can be early career professionals.
3. Applicants from all backgrounds can apply but should have a shared passion for the ocean.
4. Applicants from both EU and non-EU countries are eligible to apply.
5. Applicants can be up to 35 years old.
6. Applicants must pay a USD 19 registration fee.
Documents required for EU4Ocean Summer School:
1. Recommendation letter (if available).
2. Certificate of student status/Certificate of Academic degree.
3. Academic transcript (if required).
4. Proof of Language proficiency (English)/ Medium of Instruction (English).
5. CV (if required).
6. Additional Documents for Special Circumstances.
7. Copy of Valid Passport (Photo and Information Page).
8. Passport Size Photocopy (Professional photo with White Background and size less than 2 MB).
9. Employment certificate.
Program Deadline:
• Registration deadline for 2025 has passed.
• Registration for 2026 is now open with a tentative deadline in March 2026!
Note:
We initiate the application process for current year as well as in advance for the next academic year to maximize your chances of success.
