The project aimed to enhance the competences of adult professionals in the biomedical sector, with a specific focus on microbiota applications. It sought to create accessible, non-formal learning opportunities that respond to the sector’s evolving needs and support the professional development of adults already active or seeking employment in healthcare. By conducting targeted research, the project aimed to generate updated knowledge on microbiota applications and translate it into educational content aligned with industry demands. Its objectives also included increasing awareness of microbiome-related innovations, fostering the uptake of adult education, and promoting STEM competences. Ultimately, the project aimed to bridge the gap between academic research, industry expectations, and adult learners’ skills, to ensure a sustainable learning ecosystem capable of supporting future developments in preventive and personalised medicine.
The project builds on the findings of a previous initiative (BIOMED+) and responds to identified gaps in knowledge and skills among adults in Malta and Italy. BIOMED ADU was initiated to address the growing need for upskilling adult professionals in the healthcare sector by deepening their understanding of the microbiota and the biomedical applications available. In fact, despite increasing interest, awareness within the medical field remains limited and largely confined to Fecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT). However, the microbiome holds broader potential in preventive and personalised medicine. By developing tailored non-formal learning pathways, BIOMED ADU seeks to enhance employability, support industry growth, and align educational offerings with evolving market demands. The project also supports the expansion of transnational cooperation between academic and private actors, thereby fostering sustainable professional development and innovation in a sector of increasing strategic relevance for Europe.