Network wide training events (NWTEs)

The first Network-Wide Training Event (NWTE) of the VIVACE project was held from 12 to 18 November 2025 in Morocco and represented a key milestone for the network. This one-week event brought together, for the first time, all doctoral candidates (DCs), their supervisors, some of the associated external partners and supporting staff, fostering scientific exchange, collaboration, and team building across the consortium.

During the NWTE, participants attended a series of expert-led lectures covering essential topics related to avian influenza, including influenza virology, epidemiology, and biosecurity in poultry production systems. These sessions strengthened the DCs’ theoretical knowledge and highlighted the relevance of their research in real-world contexts. A visit to a turkey farm, in the surroundings of Rabat, further enriched the programme by offering practical insights into on-site biosecurity measures and production practices.

The event also included dedicated sessions for the presentation and discussion of the individual PhD projects, their objectives, and expected deliverables, allowing participants to gain a clearer understanding of the overall goals of the VIVACE project and to identify synergies within the network.

Beyond the scientific programme, the NWTE offered valuable cultural and social experiences. Participants discovered Moroccan culture, cuisine and traditions, contributing to an informal and motivating atmosphere. These shared experiences enabled interpersonal interactions, helped strengthen cohesion within the network and provided a strong boost of motivation for the upcoming research activities.

Overall, the first NWTE successfully combined high-quality training, networking, and cultural exchange, laying a solid foundation for collaboration throughout the VIVACE project.

The second NWTE will take place in June 2026 in France and will focus on poultry vaccination and avian flu diagnostics.