Libya Strengthens its Blue Economy Research
Recognition of Outstanding Researchers in Benghazi Coincides with the Establishment of the First Marine Technology College in the Eastern Region Cyrenaica.
As part of Libya’s growing commitment to advance scientific research and developing its blue economy, the Ministry of Technical and Vocational Education held a ceremony in Benghazi on 15 November 2025 to honor distinguished researchers and graduates within the framework of the Scientific Excellence Award – – Second Edition
Among the honorees was Sarah Al-Mabrouk, recognized for her valuable contributions in the field of marine sciences.
This recognition comes at a pivotal moment, following the issuance of Cabinet Decision No. (91) of 2025, which officially establishes the Marine Technology College in Derna — the first institution of its kind in the Eastern Region (Barqa).
The newly established college will enjoy financial and administrative independence and will fall under the Ministry of Technical and Vocational Education, with its budget to be integrated into the national budget starting in 2026. The decision also mandates coordination with the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research to approve the college’s internal regulations and academic departments.
The establishment of this college represents a significant milestone in building national capacities in marine technology, navigation, marine resource management, and applied maritime sciences. It reinforces Libya’s commitment to developing a sustainable blue economy grounded in knowledge, innovation, and skilled human resources.
The WestMED Initiative commends these national efforts, viewing the recognition of young researchers and the creation of the Marine Technology College as essential steps toward strengthening maritime education, enhancing research capabilities, and supporting sustainable coastal development in Libya.
WestMED congratulates all the award recipients and welcomes the establishment of the Marine Technology College as a strategic advancement toward a more resilient and prosperous blue economy for the country.
For more information contact the WestMED National Hub Libya (Masauda Abuarosha): libya@westmed-initiative.ec.europa.eu
