Unesco UNITWIN Network

for Underwater Archaeology

ABOUT THE NETWORK

UNITWIN Network

The UNITWIN Network for Underwater Archaeology aims to increase capacity in the participating countries through international cooperation. It will  enhance the protection of and research into, underwater cultural heritage, by connecting in a formal way universities and professional training institutions working in the field of underwater archaeology. Acting as a bridge between academia, civil society, local communities, researchers, and policymakers, the Network supports the goals of the 2001 UNESCO Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage.

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UNIVERSITY TWINNING

AND NETWORKING

UNITWIN, short for University Twinning and Networking Programme, was established by UNESCO in 1992. The program advances research, training, and development across all UNESCO fields by fostering international university networks and cooperation. It has successfully established new teaching programs, generated innovative research, and enriched existing university curricula while respecting cultural diversity.

On September 3, 2012, UNESCO and the founding members (Alexandria University, Selçuk University, Syddansk University, Southampton University and Flinders University) launched the UNESCO/UNITWIN Network for Underwater Archaeology. This initiative connects universities worldwide, enhancing cooperation and knowledge sharing in underwater archaeology.

ESTABLISHED 2012

MAIN OBJECTIVES

Promote research

promote an integrated system of research, training, information and documentation activities in the field of archaeology related to underwater cultural heritage and related disciplines.

An academic training network

an academic network to harmonize teaching programmes and material, organize joint field schools, and set up distance learning courses and facilitate exchange of students and technical equipment.

Web portal

Establish a common web portal for knowledge sharing and virtual community building.

Conferences

Organize conferences and seminars to advance research and promote the discipline.

Joint projects

Conduct joint research projects to understand underwater cultural heritage better.

Database

foster research, development, exchange and harmonization of databases and inventories addressing different aspects of underwater cultural heritage.

Inter-university cooperation

Foster inter-university cooperation and strengthen existing academic and professional networks.

Outreach and policies

Act as a bridge between the academic world, society, local communities and policymakers, promoting awareness and influencing cultural heritage policies.

CONTRIBUTIONS

01

The Network submits an annual report to UNESCO, detailing activities and financial support, which may be published on the UNESCO UNITWIN website. UNESCO facilitates the Network’s participation in its programs, promoting international academic cooperation and the exchange of information, professors, researchers, and students.

02

Through the UNITWIN Network, UNESCO continues to foster underwater archaeology, research, and capacity building, supporting the 2001 Convention’s goals for protecting submerged archaeological sites.

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