MARE - Mediterranean Alliance for Research and Education — PNRR – TNE: Transnational Education Initiatives

Original title: Mediterranean Alliance for Internationalisation of Higher Education (MARE)
Coordinator: University of Palermo
Partner universities: Polytechnic University of Turin, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, University of Bologna, University of Cagliari, University of Macerata, University of Messina, University of Pavia, University of Pisa, University of Siena, University of Turin
Target area: North Africa and the Middle East
UNIBO budget: €180,910.46

MARE is an alliance of eleven Italian universities aimed at strengthening the international dimension of higher education and promoting the Italian academic model as a point of reference in non-EU Mediterranean countries. Through close cooperation among academic institutions, the project seeks to stimulate economic and social development in the region by placing education at the heart of sustainable growth.

The project encourages the sharing of knowledge, experience and resources, creating synergies that drive innovation and high-quality training. MARE is committed to educating highly qualified professionals capable of addressing global challenges and to fostering the intercultural skills needed for integration and cooperation across the Mediterranean.

By building a solid network between Italian universities and academic institutions in North Africa and the Middle East, MARE promotes transnational education programmes that combine interdisciplinary knowledge with intercultural perspectives. Mobility opportunities for students, teaching staff, researchers and administrative personnel help to create an open, dynamic and inclusive academic environment, enriching the learning experience and enhancing mutual understanding across the Mediterranean.

Planned activities include strengthening existing double degrees at undergraduate and postgraduate level, as well as launching new joint programmes between Italian and Mediterranean universities. Special focus is placed on advanced training in seven key areas: history and cultural exchange in the Mediterranean; migration and socio-political change; the One Health approach; sustainable development and climate change; renewable energy and sustainable mobility; sustainable tourism; and employability, entrepreneurship and inclusion in the digital era.

MARE aims to build a shared education system offering high-quality academic opportunities to students in the Mediterranean region, while creating a network of skilled and informed professionals ready to contribute to shared growth and international cooperation.