NEWS: CIRASIM Project Promoted in North Macedonia – Inspiring the Next Generation of Green Port Expert

The CIRASIM project (Cold IRoning ASsessment Implementation Model) continues to gain momentum across the Adriatic-Ionian region. The project team successfully conducted two significant outreach events in North Macedonia, focusing on engaging the next generation of experts and industry stakeholders in the mission for greener maritime transport.

Empowering Future Professionals: Employment & Internship Fair

In early April, the CIRASIM team participated in the “Employment, Internship and Scholarship Fair.” This event served as a vital platform to present the project’s core mission to students and young professionals.

The team highlighted how CIRASIM supports the transition to greener ports through innovative solutions like Cold Ironing. By explaining the technical and environmental benefits of shore-side power—which allows ships to shut down their engines and reduce harmful emissions while at berth—the project sparked significant interest among those looking to build careers in the sustainable blue economy.

Academic Collaboration: Open Days at UKLO

The promotion continued from April 24th to 26th during the Open Days at the University “St. Kliment Ohridski” (UKLO) in Bitola. As a key academic setting, this event allowed for a deeper dive into the scientific and strategic aspects of the project.

Visitors and students had the opportunity to:

• learn about the environmental mission of the Interreg ADRION program;
• explore the upcoming tools and assessment models being developed for port authorities;
• discuss the importance of international cooperation in solving Mediterranean environmental challenges.

Strengthening Regional Ties

These events in North Macedonia underscore CIRASIM’s commitment to broad-based communication. By bridging the gap between high-level maritime research and the academic community, the project ensures that the knowledge surrounding Cold Ironing technology reaches the stakeholders who will implement and manage these systems in the future.