Over two weeks in Summer 2025, 22 participants from 11 countries came together in Antwerp, each bringing diverse academic and professional backgrounds. This multidisciplinary group engaged in an intensive exploration of the challenges and opportunities surrounding energy transition.
Week 1 provided a comprehensive foundation, covering an introduction in energy systems, policy and governance topics, management and shaping of (no) transitions, technology and innovation, and industry perspectives. The learning extended beyond the classroom, with social and cultural activities including a reception at Antwerp City Hall, a quiz night, and a study visit to Ghent. Participants also visited BlueApp, the University of Antwerp’s open innovation hub for electrification, where they learned about cutting-edge solutions in sustainable chemistry and energy. An inspiring visit and terminal tour of the Port of Antwerp-Bruges marked the end of the first week.
Week 2 shifted focus to the theme of just transition. Through lectures, site visits, and interactive sessions, participants explored how to ensure the energy transition is not only effective, but also fair and inclusive. A site visit to Linkeroever, one of Antwerp’s most ambitious climate districts, provided a concrete example of local transition efforts in action. The programme concluded with group presentations, in which participants reflected on their learning and presented their insights to a panel of academic and professional experts. A closing reception marked the end of the first edition of this summer school.
The programme was shaped not only by lectures and visits, but also by the experiences participants took home with them. Here’s how they describe their time in Antwerp:
- "Looking back on the summer school, I realise that it did more than expand my knowledge, it shifted the way I think. I came in expecting to learn about strategies, frameworks and best practices. I left with something more valuable: a critical lens, a sense of urgency, and a clearer understanding of where I want to position myself in the conversation around climate and justice". Kamiel (Belgium) - Master student International Relations & Diplomacy at University of Antwerp
- "The Energy Transitioning Summer School was more than a learning opportunity; it was a moment of synthesis. It brought together my academic focus on sustainable energy, my thesis work on biofuels, and my career aspiration to join Belgium’s environmental and maritime sector. Through lectures, site visits, and discussions, I reccomend it for everyone who would like to be more aware about enviroment aspects." Agnieszka (Poland) - Master student Environment Protection Engineering at Lodz University of Technology
- "The summer school exceeded my expectations, not only in its content, but also in the connections I formed with fellow students, organisers, and industrial partners, such as the Port of Antwerp-Bruges." Moses (Zambia) - PhD student at Wageningen University
- "The two weeks in Antwerp exceeded my expectations. I was introduced to energy systems, financing models, and business case frameworks, while also being challenged with critical perspectives on justice and extractivism. Most importantly, I worked with a diverse group of peers and learned as much from them as from the formal lectures. What began as a way to "catch up" on knowledge became a turning point in how I view my career and my place in the energy transition. I leave Antwerp not only more informed but also more determined to contribute my skills to a sector that desperately needs them. The energy transition is not just about technology or finance; it is about people, justice, and courage. And I want to be part of that journey." Neerav (United Kingdom) - Bachelor student Finance at University of Strathclyde
- "Professionally, the summer scool offered much more than intellectual enrichment. It provided a rare opportunity to engage with peers and experts from various disciplines and geographies, creating a dynamic environment for exchange and collaboration. Informal conversations over coffee often proved as valuable as formal lectures, sparking ideas for joint research, co-authored publications, and cross-institutional partnerships." Chuma (Nigeria), PhD student at Wageningen University