“Universities will help the world turn the climate crisis into an opportunity”. With these words, the Secretary of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), Mr. Abdalah Mokssit, summarized the discussion on academic cooperation in the Black Sea region. The event took place at the Bulgarian pavilion at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan. “Universities will play an even greater role in the future because science is essential to assess vulnerabilities, take pragmatic measures, and turn the climate crisis into a climate opportunity”.

Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski" hosted the event focused on academic cooperation in the Black Sea region. Participants included Abdalah Mokssit, Professor Nikolaos Theodosiou from Aristotle University in Thessaloniki, Greece, a member of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Marina Stefanova, Vice-Dean for Sustainability at the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration at Sofia University; and Tsvetelina Garelova, UNICEF youth delegate at COP29. The discussion was moderated by Mercedes Maroto-Valer, a specialist in sustainable engineering and a professor at Heriot-Watt University with campuses in Scotland, Dubai, and Malaysia.

“No country in the world can adapt to extreme events alone. That’s why it is important to develop reactive adaptation that is also well-planned. It’s time for a new concept. We used to manage crises, then we moved to risk management, and now we need knowledge for managing risks. Here lies the crucial role of universities”, said Mokssit.

He expressed gratitude to Sofia for hosting the 61st session of the IPCC this summer and highlighted the contribution of volunteers in a program organized by the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration at Sofia University.

During the discussion, Nikolaos Theodosiou emphasized that the Black Sea region, which also includes countries from the Caspian Sea area, has a complex history and relationships. He stressed the need for a common approach to crises and challenges. “We must work together to tackle climate change, hunger, poverty, and health threats. Universities can help break down barriers because both faculty and students are accustomed to collaborating”, he said.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Marina Stefanova highlighted that while the region has historically built barriers, today is the time for connectivity. She noted that every global problem has specific local solutions and pointed out that the focus of climate research today is on engaging younger scientists and specialists in behavioral sciences.

UNICEF youth representative Tsvetelina Garelova pointed out that young people in Bulgaria are not unified on the importance of climate change. According to her, while her peers are concerned about climate change, many are unsure of what steps to take to contribute to solutions. Garelova, who is also a climate activist, emphasized the need for mentors to guide young people, help them overcome stereotypes, and inspire them to take action.