Annual Culture Day 2026 "Between Respect and Mistake"
May 14, 2026
On May 6, Ventspils University of Applied Sciences hosted its annual Culture Day event, this year titled “Between Respect and Mistake”, organized by 1st-year students of the Bachelor’s study programme “Intercultural Communication”. The event brought together more than 54 local and international students and lecturers in a shared exchange of cultures and experiences.
During the event, participants had the opportunity to explore the traditions, social norms, and cultural differences of Croatia, Ukraine, Germany, India, Ghana, and Latvia through interactive presentations and activities. Students shared personal experiences, engaged in dialogue with the audience, and encouraged participants to reflect on the importance of respect, understanding, and the ability to adapt to different cultural environments in everyday communication.
This year, the event was also organized as an international initiative within the COLOURS Alliance, involving students and participants from various European universities. A special contribution was made by representatives from Croatia, who introduced the social norms, etiquette principles, and common cultural misunderstandings of their culture. The event was also accessible online, allowing the international audience to participate in activities and cultural exchange regardless of location.
An essential part of the event was the “Flavor of My Culture” table, where participants shared traditional dishes and snacks representing their cultures. The atmosphere throughout the event was characterized by openness, curiosity, and a genuine willingness to learn about one another beyond familiar boundaries.
Culture Day once again demonstrated that intercultural communication is not only about simply speaking to one another — it is about the ability to listen, understand, accept, and most importantly, build connections between people with different experiences and worldviews. Events like these strengthen the international environment of Ventspils University of Applied Sciences, foster a stronger sense of community, and highlight the importance of cultural diversity both within the university and in society as a whole.
Prepared by:
Elizabete Apiņa-Fleisa
Bachelor’s study programme “Intercultural Communication”, Year 1
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