The iMERMAID-associated project BRIDGEWAT successfully conducted its first student training session with overwhelming participation. Held on June 24, 2025, at the Pan-European University Apeiron in Banja Luka, the event drew over 40 students of sanitary and laboratory engineering, more than doubling the anticipated attendance.
The training provided participants with direct experience of key innovations developed within the iMERMAID project. This included a live demonstration of a mobile electrochemical sensor for detecting heavy metals in water and an introduction to the iMERMAID Community Engagement Toolkit, both designed to empower communities to tackle chemical water pollution effectively.
The event marks a crucial step in translating iMERMAID’s research and development into practical, on-the-ground action. By equipping future environmental professionals with advanced tools and collaborative strategies, the initiative is fostering a new generation of skilled water guardians.
The training was organised by the Institute for Protection and Ecology of the Republic of Srpska as the first in a series of workshops planned under the BRIDGEWAT project. The initiative aims to build a strong network of educated and aware stakeholders to promote sustainable water management in the region.
