Ecomanagers at University: A New Programme Supporting the Region’s Energy Transition
Students of the programme “Sustainable Transformation: Environment, Climate, Energy” are already through their first classes! The postgraduate studies, implemented under Project 2.5.C “Support for the Energy Transition of Municipalities in the Malopolska Region” within the European Funds for Malopolska 2021–2027 programme, are debuting this academic year at AGH University of Science and Technology. This year’s edition of the studies is financed with European funds.
During the inauguration, speeches were delivered by Prof. Monika Motak, PhD, Dean of the Faculty of Energy and Fuels, and Kinga Radoń, Director of the Department of Environment at the Marshal’s Office (MO). In their addresses, they emphasized that it is the knowledge and competencies of local government officials that form the foundation of an effective energy transition in the Malopolska Region.
The studies are dedicated to local government employees, particularly Ecomanagers, working on energy transition, air quality improvement, and the development of renewable energy sources (RES). The programme responds to the ongoing need to deepen knowledge in energy transition and current opportunities for obtaining funding for pro-environmental actions. The classes also serve as a forum for exchanging experiences among employees engaged in air protection and energy management in their municipalities, forming a unique team of clean air ambassadors.
Participants of the programme will gain broad technical knowledge in air protection, environmental analytics, conventional and renewable energy sources, energy efficiency, local energy planning, and vehicle emissions. The curriculum includes both lectures and practical classes – including preparing and analyzing building energy performance, legal aspects of RES, project management, and feasibility studies. Participants will also develop communication, self-presentation, and negotiation skills, essential for an Ecomanager, who works both at the office and in the field, conducting educational and promotional activities.
The inauguration of the studies marks the beginning of an intensive period of learning and collaboration, which will strengthen the capacity of municipalities in the Malopolska Region in the energy transition process. With the support of the European Funds for Malopolska 2021–2027 programme, we are taking another step towards building a modern, environmentally friendly region, where the knowledge and competencies of local government employees translate into tangible actions for improving air quality and promoting sustainable energy.
