iMERMAID INITIATIVE SUMMER SCHOOL HELD AT THE INSTITUTE
From 25 to 29 August 2025, the Summer School was organized at the premises of the Institute for Protection and Ecology of the Republic of Srpska in Banja Luka, as part of the European project iMERMAID – Innovative solutions for Mediterranean Ecosystem Remediation via Monitoring and decontamination from Chemical Pollution. The event was implemented in cooperation with the European Junior Water Programme (EJWP) and the BRIDGEWAT project (BRIDGing Communities for SustainablE WATers), for which the Institute is the national coordinator.
The Summer School gathered participants from several countries: researchers, industry representatives, water management experts, and young professionals who, through a series of activities, enhanced their knowledge of water protection, innovative sensor technologies, and social engagement. Participants received training in leadership, stakeholder communication, and project implementation, with special emphasis on practical tools for chemical pollution monitoring.
As part of the program, demonstrations of advanced technologies for monitoring heavy metals, PFAS, and organic micropollutants were organized. Participants had the opportunity, in cooperation with the companies Colorit and Hemofarm, to observe on-site how electrochemical sensors function in real industrial conditions and to participate in the collection and analysis of data via remote-access systems.
Special attention was drawn to the workshop for high school students, during which the "school missions" of the iMERMAID project were presented. With an inspiring presentations, students took part in quizzes, workshops, and exhibitions that enabled them to gain new insights into the importance of clean waters and pollution monitoring.
This Summer School represents an important step in strengthening youth capacities and networking various actors in the field of water protection. By integrating science, education, technology, and joint work through the iMERMAID and BRIDGEWAT platforms, the preconditions are created for the successful implementation of modern European practices in local communities.