Santiago Dei Cas is a third year Sport and Recreation Management student at SETU in Waterford. As a mature student, returning to formal education has reignited a passion for learning. 

For Santiago, the educational spark reignited when he came across EU-CONEXUS, European University for Smart Urban Coastal Sustainability. It offers two undergraduate programmes that SETU students can apply for: Minor in Coastal Development and Sustainable Maritime Tourism  and Minor in Blue Economy and Growth. 

These offerings are specialisation programmes jointly developed by the EU-CONEXUS universities for undergraduate students across the alliance. Ultimately, it was the passion for personal growth and professional fulfilment which lead Santiago to successfully apply for two modules in Minor in Coastal Development and Sustainable Maritime Tourism. In 2023, Santiago undertook Entrepreneurship offered by Agricultural University of Athens and Sustainable Tourism Development offered by Klaipeda University, Lithuania. 

“It was an excellent opportunity for many reasons. Firstly, I got the chance to collaborate with people from all around Europe, getting to know different approaches to work and university life. Every student attends these courses voluntarily, so it is a unique chance to get to know like-minded people who are passionate about the environment and making a positive impact. Both modules were very different yet really practical. They allowed me to research topics that I am interested in and gain valuable knowledge and research skills that I will be able to utilise in my main degree. I could also work on sustainable project ideas, which inspired me and brought newfound confidence to move forward with them” 

I sincerely encourage every student interested in enhancing their professional profile to take EU-CONEXUS modules. Given the prominence of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the 2030 agenda, this topic is both crucial for well-being of individuals and societies, and essential for becoming a well-rounded professional in any field. I believe that undertaking EU-CONEXUS modules will enhance my employability in the future, highlighting my ability to multi-task, manage time, and make academic commitments to upskill in areas related to the green transition”. 

Santiago Dei Cas, third year Sport and Recreation Management student at SETU in Waterford. 

About EU-CONEXUS Minor Programmes 

To earn a Minor Certificate in Smart Urban Coastal Sustainability, students must complete 5 courses (30 ECTS) from 3 different universities and at least 2 programme sectors. Each module is worth 6 ECTS, and taking extra modules can help develop skills like independent learning, time management, and upskilling or fulfil work placement requirements. All modules are online, taught in English, and free of charge. Eligible students must be undergraduates at SETU or an EU-CONEXUS university with a minimum English level of B2. 

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