LBTU Lifelong Education project.

From April 17th to April 24th, 20 participants from the Tashkent Institute of Chemical Technology (TCTI) and Bukhara Institute of Engineering and Technology (BMTI) embarked on a transformative journey as part of the GIZ project focused on Central Asia boundaries visited Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies (LBTU). The cornerstone of the project lies in the enhancement of the academic capabilities of teaching staff. Workshops, training sessions, and collaborative initiatives with Central Asian universities will enable educators to stay abreast of the latest advancements in food technology.

The itinerary commenced with an orientation day, during which the Uzbekistan delegates were acquainted with LBTU's facilities, laboratories, library, and the Institute of Food. This initial immersion set the stage for a week of individual learning of Bioeconomy, Food Microbiology, Hygiene, Quality systems, Food processing Equipment, Food Additives, New Food Product Development, Nutrition, Food Products packaging, Sensory Evaluating of Food lectures.

The week-long visit proved to be internship for all involved. The participants delved into various industries, gaining valuable insights and experiences. Among the highlights were visits to esteemed establishments such as SIA Latvijas Piens, the Institute of Food Safety Animal Health and Environment (BIOR), and coffee company Ltd Lofbergs Latvia.

Throughout their stay, participants engaged in individual work under the guidance of LBTU supervisors, primarily within the Agriculture and Food Technology and Faculty of Economics and Social Development. However, the emphasis was not solely on academic pursuits. The program organizers curated a diverse range of activities, including networking sessions, seminars, team-building exercises, and cultural events, enriching the overall experience and fostering camaraderie among participants.

The knowledge gained in the project and the prepared study courses will be used to implement the concluded agreement on the implementation of the Dual Diploma study program "Food Quality and Innovation" between TCTI and LBTU and BMTI and LBTU.

Looking ahead, discussions amongst project coordinators have already begun to chart the course for future endeavors. Plans are underway for a meeting in Uzbekistan scheduled for August 2024. This forthcoming gathering will serve as a continuation of the collaboration initiated during the visit to LBTU.

The visit of the GIZ project participants from Uzbekistan to Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies not only facilitated knowledge transfer but also fostered a spirit of cooperation and mutual understanding. As these partnerships continue to evolve, they hold the promise of driving innovation, promoting cultural exchange, and contributing to the advancement of education and research in both countries.