Education & training
Staff training and awareness-raising
Faced with the urgency of environmental issues, the institution has set itself the goal of developing and strengthening its staff's knowledge and technical skills in the area of sustainability, while supporting changes in attitudes and values.
It is with this in mind that the University of Montpellier is implementing training and awareness-raising initiatives for its staff. The objective is threefold: to enable everyone to better understand the challenges of ecological transition, to equip professionals so that they can integrate these concerns into their daily practices, and to participate in building a common culture around ecological transition, which is essential for driving sustainable and consistent change at all levels of the organization.
Staff training
The University of Montpellier is actively committed to the continuing education of its staff through a diversified professional development policy and a range of group training coursesrelated to ecological transition. This policy and the actions that stem from it take into account the specific needs of each individual, regulatory, technical, social, and societal developments, as well as the institution's strategic objectives, particularly in terms of ecological transition. The University offers specialized training tailored to different skill levels, ranging from basic knowledge of environmental issues to specific practices related to different professions, allowing each employee to progress at their own pace and according to their personal and professional interests. For greater individualization and flexibility, the University offers practical workshops, interactive seminars, and online courses. The aim is to strengthen staff skills while promoting a culture of environmental responsibility within the institution.
Training of trainers
As part of the rollout of undergraduate courses on ecological transition for sustainable development and the integration of these issues into the various programs offered by the University, UM aims to support teachers in developing their knowledge and skills in teaching ecological transition.
With this in mind, the University of Montpellier implements and offers training courses for trainers in ecological transition focused on specific themes (biodiversity, climate, etc.). Trainers are thus better equipped to pass on this knowledge to their students, who in turn become informed and committed actors in the ecological transition. This approach encourages the emergence of future professionals who are aware of environmental challenges and capable of integrating sustainable solutions into their professions.
Thematic training
As part of its collective training program, the institution offers staff a range of thematic training courses dedicated to ecological transition. These courses are aimed at teachers, Professors, researchers, and administrative and technical staff alike. Designed to be accessible to all, they aim to develop and strengthen knowledge and skills on environmental issues by addressing topics such as "The foundations and challenges of ecological transition" and "Taking action for ecological transition from your office."
Specific business modules
In order to meet certain specific needs, the institution offers training courses focused on ecological transition tailored to certain professions such as gardeners and administrative staff. These courses aim to integrate ecological transition issues into concrete professional practices. These programs enable staff to acquire operational skills that can be directly applied in their work, while contributing to the ecological transformation of the University.
Staff awareness
Naturalist workshops
The University of Montpellier attaches particular importance to raising awareness among its staff about environmental protection, particularly biodiversity. With this in mind, and based on the idea that a better understanding of biodiversity leads to better protection, naturalist workshops have been organized since 2023. Open to university staff, they take place in the Jardin des Plantes and on the Triolet Campus. Led by Professors , these workshops are true spaces for learning and discovery, and are divided into two parts: entomology and botany. Through a fun and educational approach, participants are invited to take a fresh look at the living beings they encounter every day, to understand their diversity, and to reflect on the need to preserve biological diversity.
Other awareness campaigns
As part of the SDTE, the University of Montpellier has launched an awareness campaign targeting the entire university community through the organization of flagship events and initiatives.
The institution has launched EcoN’UM, a week-long awareness campaign dedicated to the environmental footprint of digital technology at the University of Montpellier. Digital frescoes were used to explain the impact of digital technology and its link to the ecological transition. Resources were designed and made available to staff and students with a view to raising awareness and sharing knowledge.
The University welcomes and supports the student week dedicated to the circular economy.
The UM also offers film screenings followed by discussions on key themes related to ecological transition, such as the film Même pas peur (Not Even Afraid), eco-anxiety as a driving force by Vinz Kanté, and the film on the use of soft mobility Why We Cycle by Gertjan Hulster and Arne Gielen.
The institution is therefore committed to ecological transition by raising awareness among its staff through a wide range of diverse actions that support and develop social and environmental skills.
