Gheorghe Asachi Technical University of Iași has reached an important milestone by becoming the first higher education institution in Romania to train facilitators for Climate Fresk workshops.
This initiative was carried out within the framework of the project “Synergies for the Sustainable Internationalization of TUIASI at the European and Global Levels (SISTEM),” project code CNFIS-FDI-2025-F-0103. It underscores the university’s commitment to climate education and sustainability, positioning it at the forefront of efforts to raise awareness and take action in the face of current climate challenges,” stated Prof. Dr. Eng. Irina Lungu, Vice-Rector for International Relations and Project Director.
What is Climate Fresk?
Through a playful approach based on scientific reports from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the interactive, collaborative workshop game allows participants to identify the causes and consequences of climate change and understand the phenomenon’s complex interconnections. Initially created in France, it has since been translated and adapted into over 45 languages, with coordinators in 167 countries.
The aim is to provide a solid understanding of climate science and stimulate constructive discussions about solutions and actions through a network of individuals who can provide quality climate education and guide us toward a low-carbon world.
Why certification for the TUIASI community representatives?
TUIASI’s decision to certify this group of facilitators for Climate Fresk workshops responds to the need for a nonformal yet scientifically rigorous approach to disseminating information about climate change and activating a culture of responsibility regarding climate change. It also encourages proactive involvement in transforming the campus into a sustainable space.
This initiative increases the TUIASI community’s awareness of climate change and encourages dialogue and collaboration.
Fifteen representatives of the academic community and administrative staff participated in a two-day workshop organized by the NGO Mai Bine, with Anca Gheorghică and Raluca Dumitrescu serving as trainers. On July 1, participants used the Climate Fresk method to explore the causes and effects of climate change, ultimately outlining green solutions and concrete actions to reduce its local impact.
The following day, July 2nd, the Climate Fresk facilitator training took place. This session was dedicated to preparing future facilitators to organize and conduct workshops within the community and beyond. Participants received instructions on facilitation methodology and effective session management techniques. Game sessions were simulated so that future facilitators could practice their skills.
These facilitators will play an essential role in organizing Climate Fresk workshops within the TUIASI community for students, professors, and administrative staff, as well as outside the university. TUIASI will also have its own body of facilitators at the international “Ter.r.a Puzzle” event, which will take place in September of this year as part of the INGENIUM Alliance agenda. This event is intended to be the largest climate education event in the world, connecting communities from all consortium universities simultaneously in an effort to raise awareness about climate and environmental protection.
The interactive workshop gave TUIASI staff (including teaching and support service personnel) the opportunity to deeply understand the Climate Fresk method. Participants gained clear knowledge of the method’s underlying content, developed their Climate Fresk workshop facilitation skills, and fostered a sense of belonging to the global Climate Fresk movement.
