Five individuals from different countries, namely Jamaica, Nicaragua, Cuba, Malawi, and Sierra Leone, are currently in the Faroe Islands to experience Faroese aquaculture. These individuals are referred to as fellows. This morning, their journey took them from Tórshavn towards the north, where they were supposed to visit a salmon farm to count lice. However, due to challenging weather conditions, the plan had to be altered on the way north, and the lice counting was cancelled. Instead, they visited Áir to explore how welfare assessments can be conducted for Atlantic salmon and other fish species. This endeavour is being led by researchers at Firum.
These five distinguished individuals are currently in the Faroe Islands for a two-week stay. Their visit is the result of a collaboration between Iceland and the Faroe Islands under an international cultural cooperation program. Iceland has been conducting the UNESCO-GRÓ Fisheries Training Programme for the past 25 years, which has recently included a course on Sustainable Aquaculture. Firum has been working with Iceland on this program for the last two years.
The five fellows will spend six months in Iceland to receive training and knowledge on various aspects of aquaculture. The Faroe Islands possess significant experience and valuable knowledge on how to manage aquaculture and its related conditions. That is why a collaboration with Iceland has been embarked upon.
Firum researchers recently journeyed to Iceland, sharing their expertise through informative presentations. Now, five fellows are in the Faroe Islands, and it is expected that researchers from Firum will guide some of them when they undertake research projects in the spring.
The schedule for these two weeks is packed with visits to facilities and authorities, and lectures where we discuss various topics and challenges. Additionally, they will each conduct their research projects, addressing and analyzing specific issues from their home countries.
Despite the differences in aquaculture conditions in Africa, Central America, and the Faroe Islands, both in terms of weather, species, ageing issues, and general practices, there are relevant topics such as welfare, water quality, environmental conditions, registration, and more.
We at Firum are thrilled to be collaborating with these amazing fellows! This partnership is truly beneficial for both parties.
