We are proud to welcome the second cohort of students in the GREENANO Erasmus Mundus Joint Master in Nanomaterials for the Green & Digital Transitions.
This year, 23 brilliant students arrived from 17 different countries, including Bangladesh, Nigeria, Ghana, Kazakhstan, Mexico, Colombia, Viet Nam, Indonesia, Costa Rica, Pakistan, France, Azerbaijan, Ethiopia, Italy, India, Spain, and Cuba. They are beginning their journey in Nancy, France, for the first semester of this unique program at Mines Nancy and the Faculty of Science and Technologies.
Building on the strong foundation set by last year’s inaugural cohort, the new students are joining an international learning community that brings together cutting-edge science, global collaboration, and real-world sustainability challenges. Over the next two years, they will study across France, Italy, and Slovenia, supported by partner institutions including the University of Rome Tor Vergata, CNR–ISM Institute of Structure of Matter, and the Jožef Stefan International Postgraduate School.
“I am truly humbled to be part of GREENANO, a program that feels like a dream come true for a young and passionate woman like me. Being on this dynamic journey means more than just studying—it is about training to become a changemaker who can shape a sustainable tomorrow. With every step, I feel inspired by the purpose of contributing to solutions that the world urgently needs, and after graduation, I aspire to pursue a PhD in nanomaterials for sustainability, dedicating myself to advancing science that serves humanity and the planet.”
Umaiza Sattar, Pakistan
“Coming from Ethiopia to France for the Greenano EMJM is a life-changing experience for me. It is my first time leaving my country, and everything feels both exciting and inspiring.
I chose the Greenano programme because it combines my passion for physics with a meaningful mission: developing green nanomaterials for a sustainable future. For me, science is not only about curiosity, but also about creating solutions that matter for people and the planet. I see this as the beginning of a journey I have dreamed about for a long time — the path toward becoming a scientist.”
Muluken Addisu, Ethiopia
Just a week into the programme, I became quite convinced that GREENANO is preparing the next generation of scientists and engineers for the future of human technology.”
Muhammad Abdulazeez, Nigeria
A Week of Integration, Inspiration, and Connections
The kick-off week in Nancy was packed with events designed to help students integrate into their new environment, build networks, and connect their studies with broader sustainability challenges. One of the highlights was their participation in the 4th edition of Academia Stands for Green Deal, held at Mines Nancy from 3–5 September.
The conference gathered over 100 participants, fostering inspiring discussions on themes such as:
- From Lab to Law — how science can shape Green Deal policy
- Designing high-impact projects for a greener future
- Green skills in action with students and young researchers leading the way
- AI for the Green Deal — real applications and careers
Interactive sessions like the Mission Green Deal simulation game (Congratulations to the winning team BEESMART, which proudly included new GREENANO students!), the upgraded exhibition “Metals and Minerals in the Energy Transition: Science. Art. Game.”, and hands-on workshops such as La Fresque des Ressources du Sous-Sol gave the students an early chance to immerse themselves in collaborative, practical learning.
“What I find most exciting about this master’s program is how it brings together different disciplines and connects them directly to real-world applications. From building a strong foundation in materials science to exploring how these advances can address global challenges, it offers the tools to contribute to innovative solutions.”
Isabel Martínez, Spain
During my postgraduate diploma studies in Italy, I spent a lot of time reflecting on my interests and future path. I could have gone straight into a PhD in theoretical condensed matter physics, but I felt that would be a rushed step. I chose GREENANO because it would give me the chance to explore different academic areas, build both practical and industry-focused skills, and figure out what future direction I really want to take.
I was also drawn to the fact that the program is designed to equip students with practical knowledge and skills needed to contribute to addressing challenges in green energy and digital transition. These areas are becoming key focus of industries and research worldwide and so it would be my pleasure to contribute to the transition.
My hope is that through the program, I’ll be able to make the right choice for my future, whether to be in research or in industry.”
Amos Hayford Akudugu, Ghana
Beyond the Classroom
Integration is also about discovering local culture and landscapes. To mark the beginning of their studies, the cohort enjoyed a sunny hike in the Vosges mountains, complete with panoramic views around the Hohneck, a picnic in fresh alpine air, and a visit to the Confiserie des Hautes Vosges for a sweet taste of French artisanal tradition.
“As my mentor once shared, ‘When you focus only on the massiveness of the work, whatever it may be, advancement can feel uncertain. But when you focus on steady progress and the purpose behind it, massive results become possible.’ The green transition might not happen overnight, but with consistent steps forward, we, as curious innovators, can achieve lasting impact.
I certainly look forward to my time in the GREENANO program, as it allows me to combine my passion for STEM and sustainability with practical research and collaboration. For me, this is not just an academic journey but also a chance to grow and contribute to shaping a greener, digital future.”
Oluwafunmilayo Ajakaiye, Nigeria
Beginning the GREENANO EMJM programme has been an exciting and inspiring experience, bringing together an international community of students and experts. I chose this programme because it connects my passion for nanomaterials with the urgent need for sustainable technologies. I look forward to gaining deeper knowledge through research and collaboration, and after graduation, I hope to contribute to advancing green nanotechnology for renewable energy and environmental protection.”
Mohammad Faheem, Pakistan
Recognition on the National Stage
The ecological transition at Mines Nancy was recently featured on France 3 Grand Est, highlighting GREENANO as one of the program’s flagship contributors. With its international scope and forward-looking approach, GREENANO is preparing a new generation of engineers ready to tackle the pressing challenges of sustainability.
This recognition comes as Mines Nancy reaches the #1 spot in the ChangeNOW x Les Échos START ranking of engineering schools most committed to the social & ecological transition (5th in 2022, 3rd in 2023).
Looking Ahead
As the students embark on this global journey across three countries, their first semester in Nancy marks the beginning of a transformative experience—academically, culturally, and personally. With the support of professors from all partner universities and the guidance of last year’s pioneering cohort, the second generation of GREENANO students is already making its mark.
Welcome to the adventure — the green and digital transitions need you!
Next call for applications opens on 1 November 2025!