Q&A: Nele Pinket on Vives' new Bachelor in ecotechnology

Is this programme the first of its kind in Flanders?
Our team is indeed the first in Flanders to set up a general programme that enables students to deal with the different aspects of various ecotechnological projects. We will introduce the students to a broad spectrum of areas related to sustainable entrepreneurship and ecological product management, while existing programmes focus on things such as energy technology and materials management. The purpose is to develop students’ technical and management skills so they will be able to have a “helicopter view” of projects.

Is it a very practical programme?
Our courses always contain both theoretical and practical elements. We definitely want students to acquire a very project-based approach, so concrete assignments are essential. We have also chosen to include an internship in every study year, so students are well prepared for the labour market.

Students will observe professionals on the work floor in their first year, get more responsibility in their second year and lead their own project during their final internship. To make sure the profile of our students matches the needs of companies, we have established ties with the business world. For example, construction company Bostoen, which specialises in sustainable building, is part of our network.

How can this be applied in graduates’ future jobs?
They will have the expertise to make sure projects have a positive social, ecological and economic impact. More and more companies realise that initiatives should be beneficial for the environment and for society, but they also need to remain economically feasible to be successful. With their multidisciplinary skills, our graduates should be the ideal intermediaries between the technical departments and company directors. 

Do you also prepare students for a possible international careers?
The first semester of the first year includes lessons to improve students’ English- and French-language skills, as part of the management course. Throughout the degree, language lecturers will coach students to writer certain reports and presentations in English or French.