Between 7 and 9 May 2025, a series of pivotal activities took place at the University of Tuscia in Viterbo, Italy, marking an important step forward for the international MEDSOILS-CHALLENGE One-Year Specialisation Programme/Course. Over these three days, representatives from partner universities, leading soil science experts, and collaborating organisations came together, both in person and online, to shape the future of this unique academic initiative.
It is worth recalling that the MEDSOILS-CHALLENGE has been designed to train professionals capable of tackling current and future challenges in the management and conservation of Mediterranean soils. By combining online learning with on-site stays in Turkey, Spain, Slovenia, and Italy, the programme gives students the opportunity to learn from international experts and work within truly multicultural teams.
Throughout the meeting, fundamental issues were discussed, all of which are crucial for ensuring the quality and viability of the programme. Matters addressed included academic recognition across different countries, the administrative and management structure of the master’s, alignment of content with European standards, and the most up-to-date developments in soil science. Special attention was paid to the organisation of international mobility periods and fieldwork, as well as the entry requirements and ideal student profiles.
Key Topics Discussed
- Academic recognition: The participants discussed how to ensure that the degree would be valid and recognised in every partner country. Each university outlined its own legal and administrative requirements, such as the need for approval from the Higher Education Council in Turkey, or recognition as a specialisation course in Slovenia and Spain.
- Programme structure and management: It was agreed that the University of Tuscia will oversee admissions, certificate issuance, and overall coordination. A steering committee will be established, alongside a Memorandum of Understanding between all institutions.
- Curriculum and course content: Suggestions were made to strengthen modules relating to soil health threats, soil biology, and applied technologies. Adapting the curriculum to European standards and drawing upon the latest experiences from international projects were also recommended.
- Mobility and fieldwork: The importance of short stays in each country was emphasised, as well as hands-on fieldwork and collaborative workshops, all designed to enrich the student experience.
- Access and student profiles: While the master’s is open to university graduates, it was also agreed that motivation and diversity of background would be taken into account during the interview process.
“Every step we take together strengthens the quality and international impact of this master’s programme. We want our students to enjoy a truly unique academic experience, with genuine opportunities for learning and collaboration.”
Agreements Reached
As a result of these wide-ranging discussions, several key agreements were reached—ones that will set a new standard for the programme. The University of Tuscia will manage admissions and certificates, ensuring academic validity across all partner universities through a common agreement. The curriculum will be strengthened with new modules on soil threats, biology, and applied technologies, keeping the content in line with recommendations from European bodies and sector experts.
How Will This Improve the Master’s Programme?
Thanks to these decisions and the spirit of collaboration among the universities, the master’s will become more flexible, more widely recognised, and even more closely linked to the professional world. Students will gain access to truly international training, with practical experience that addresses the real challenges facing society and the environment. Furthermore, the structure of the mobility periods, the workshops, and the focus on applied skills will prepare graduates to lead innovative projects in sustainable soil management, both locally and internationally.
In summary, the Viterbo meeting has given decisive momentum to the MEDSOILS-CHALLENGE One-Year Specialisation Programme/Course. Thanks to the combined efforts of all institutions involved, the programme has been strengthened both in its international scope and practical focus, offering future students a modern, flexible course with a high degree of professional recognition.
