GRÓ Fisheries Training Programme Praised in External Evaluation
The GRÓ Fisheries Training Programme (GRÓ FTP) received praise from external evaluators GOPA in the latest evaluation of the GRÓ Centre and four GRÓ programmes. The GOPA report highlighted GRÓ FTP’s alignment with global sustainability goals, its transformative impact on partner countries, and its innovative approach to education and training. Additionally, GRÓ FTP was recognized for strong cost-effectiveness.
Empowering Fisheries Professionals around the World
The report highlights how GRÓ FTP is helping shape the future of sustainable fisheries management, with a clear alignment to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14: Life Below Water. Since its establishment in 1998, the Fisheries Training Programme has graduated over 489 fellows from its flagship six-month postgraduate training programme in Iceland. Beyond the six-month training programme, FTP´s additional activities such as specialized short courses in country, alumni support and scholarship opportunities have benefitted approximately 1,700 professionals from partner countries.
FTP fellows participating in the evaluation reported notable career growth and substantial inputs into policies and technical advancements in their home countries—demonstrating the programme´s effectiveness in contributing to lasting development change.
Building a Global Network of Fisheries Expertise
The evaluation outlined that GRÓ FTP´s success is built on Iceland’s world-class fisheries expertise and its partnerships with institutions in partner countries. The programme is focused on gender inclusivity, with women comprising 55% of its fellows during the evaluation period of 2018-2024. Alumni feedback revealed high satisfaction, with 80% saying they’ve grown professionally and made a real impact in their field after completing the programme.
Sustainability and Looking Ahead
The GOPA evaluation celebrated GRÓ FTP´s continuing sustainability work, emphasising its role in building long-term partnerships, sharing knowledge through funding alumni to present at international conferences, and collaborating on projects like FARFISH—all the while keeping things cost-effective and efficient.
However, the evaluation didn’t just highlight the successes; it also gave some ideas for the future. Suggestions include increasing scholarships for Ph.D. and MSc. candidates, boosting the programme’s online presence, and creating a clear Theory of Change to map out its goals.
A Legacy Worth Celebrating
As GRÓ FTP continues its work, the programme remains committed to empowering fisheries professionals, advancing sustainable practices, and contributing to global development goals. GRÓ FTP´s success reflects Iceland’s dedication to fostering knowledge-sharing and capacity-building in fisheries management.
