Tobruk University Hosts the 2nd International Scientific Conference on Tourism and Archaeology with Active Participation from the WestMED Initiative
On 16 November 2025, The Tobruk University, through its Faculty of Tourism and Archaeology, successfully organized the 2nd International Scientific Conference on Tourism and Archaeology, gathering academics, researchers, and tourism professionals from across Libya and the Mediterranean region. The event underscored the university’s commitment to advancing research and capacity in cultural heritage, sustainable tourism, and archaeology.
The conference was spearheaded by a dedicated Organizing Committee, led by prominent figures such as Dr. Belieed and Dr. Abdulbasit, who played a key role in designing the scientific program, coordinating panels, and ensuring broad participation. Their leadership helped make the event a dynamic platform for dialogue and cooperation.
WestMED facilitating sustainable tourism initiatives
The WestMED Initiative was represented by Ms. Stephanie Vella, Malta’s National Hub and Dr. Masauda Abuarosha from Libya’s National Hub.
During her intervention, Ms. Stephanie Vella presented the WestMED Tourism Technical Group in-depth, explaining its mission to promote sustainable tourism in the western Mediterranean. She detailed how the group operates, the kinds of projects it supports (such as community- based tourism, capacity building, and cross-border initiatives), and how interested stakeholders can engage. She also encouraged researchers, students, and tourism practitioners to register and take part in the Tourism Technical Group, highlighting that active involvement opens doors to regional cooperation, training opportunities, and the ability to contribute to future Mediterranean tourism strategies.
Dr. Masauda Abuarosha, shared Libya’s ongoing engagement with WestMED, including efforts to establish a Libyan Maritime Cluster, foster university-to-university cooperation, and integrate blue economy thinking into tourism and heritage preservation. She emphasized that Libya’s coastline offers valuable potential for sustainable maritime tourism and cultural conservation.
The presence of WestMED at the conference sparked considerable interest among attendees, especially given the initiative’s growing influence in promoting sustainable coastal development, protecting marine heritage, and enabling innovation in the blue economy.
In his closing remarks, the President of Tobruk University and the Organizing Committee thanked the WestMED representatives for their vital contribution, Tobruk University reaffirmed its dedication to fostering academic excellence, regional partnerships, and sustainable development in the fields of tourism and archaeology.
For more information: contact Masauda Abuarosha: libya@westmed-initiative.ec.europa.eu
