Review of Our Online Academy Dedicated to Industry 4.0
Published on 19 March 2025
As part of the Euromed Clusters Forward project, an Online Academy was organized to strengthen the skills of clusters and their members in Industry 4.0. This initiative is part of a series of academies aimed at fostering growth, collaboration, and sustainable development of clusters in the Mediterranean region.
Divided into three sessions, this Online Academy brought together 25 participants from 7 project countries: Tunisia, Morocco, Algeria, Jordan, Lebanon, and Egypt. It provided an in-depth exploration of Industry 4.0 challenges and equipped participants with practical methods and tools to help their members transition toward the future of industry.
A structured program for progressive skill development
Session 1: Understanding and Diagnosing Industry 4.0
Participants first explored the context and historical evolution of the industry of the future to better grasp its challenges and impacts. Special attention was given to the 4.0 pre-diagnosis, a key tool for supporting SMEs in their early transformation stages. The session also introduced industry standards such as those of the Alliance Industrie du Futur, as well as tools like the I2DF index and the T2E profile, which help assess and guide businesses towards Industry 4.0.
Session 2: Case Studies and Co-creation of Industry 4.0 solutions for MENA Clusters
To illustrate the concepts covered, participants analyzed various Industry 4.0 diagnostic case studies, highlighting best practices and challenges. A collaborative workshop followed, where clusters worked together to develop specific guidelines to support their members in this transformation. This collective effort laid the foundation for a more tailored support framework suited to the realities of the MENA region.
Session 3: Industry 4.0 and Circular Economy
The final session broadened the discussion by integrating a crucial aspect: the transition to a circular economy. Participants were introduced to the Circular 4.0 program, which promotes the adoption of circular business models in industry, along with the Circular Business Model Canvas, a tool designed to help businesses rethink their strategies for sustainability. This approach enabled participants to explore synergies between digitalization, industrial innovation, and environmental commitment.
A Step toward more innovative and sustainable mediterranean Clusters
By facilitating exchanges between Team Henri Fabre experts and cluster representatives from the MENA region, this Online Academy helped bridge ecosystems from both sides of the Mediterranean, strengthening intersectoral cooperation and regional value chains.
With more online and in-person academies planned, the Euromed Clusters Forward project remains committed to empowering Mediterranean clusters and driving their transition toward a more innovative and sustainable future.