I was enrolled at AIU to study for a Doctorate degree (PhD) in   Blue Economy development studies in January 2023 because I wanted to deepen my understanding of  the concept as I have been working in this field at different stages.  The concept  is an emerging one, geopolitically oriented and is directly related to climate change, global warming and sustainable development issues.

I learned about AIU university from a family member who was graduating for his PhD.

Due to the multi sectoral nature of Blue Economy, and as it is  a new and evolving  concept,  I was at first quite concerned that I wouldn’t find the appropriate courses and materials at AIU to move forward with my studies. The topic is not straightforward.

After I had gone through the different documents provided by AIU, I understood that the university’s objective is to support and empower students in their self development and progress through self learning,  applying acquired skills and  knowledge.

Though I found the technique a little challenging at first, I then found the university’s holistic educational design approach,  based on andragogy interesting.  The procedure of guiding students through the different phases of the programme was motivating.

Whilst working through  phase 1 realized  the valuable experiences I had achieved throughout my career and extra professional paths. It was a self evaluating experience !

For the Phase 2 of the programme, developing  my curriculum design,  gave me the opportunity to elaborate on the holistic approach of  the Blue Economy concept.

I selected appropriate courses offered mainly under the school of Science and Engineering options so I could conduct the necessary research and develop corresponding assignments relevant to Blue Economy, based on my experience.

From the course critical thinking allowing analysis of concepts, research methodology, environmental engineering, environment management and pollution, sustainability and innovation, to business model development, I learned very interesting facts from these main courses. They allowed me to do in depth bibliographic research in relevance to Blue Economy sectors and  I was able to work through my different  assignments .

I also enjoyed the live classes in which I participated whenever possible. It is enriching to listen to others experience and learn other topics for general knowledge.

I am actually focusing on two or three short assignments relevant to blue economy, namely on new issues related to climate change,  sustainable tourism and ocean governance so my transcript will be complete and useful for my way forward.

Finally I will be compiling the assignments into a ‘thesis report’ which I will refer to when I apply for consultancies, or other jobs, as organizations with which I have been working in the past,  request for such reports prior to recruitment.

I feel now more confident !

I thank AIU’s team for their good assistance.