Field of Humanities and Arts

From July 7 to 12, the Multilingualism EU Summer School 2025 took place in Luxembourg for the second time. The participation of master's students in this summer school is ensured by the European Master's in Translation (EMT) network, which also includes the master's program Translation and Terminology of VUAS. Thirty-three students from master's programs in translation or law participated in the summer school. The school aimed to introduce participants to the importance of multilingualism and its practical implementation in EU institutions. This year, our program was represented at the school by Ailenda Bulindža-Leitiete. Ailenda shares: "Participation in the summer school was an excellent opportunity to visit the European Parliament and meet translator Alīna Grīnberga, get acquainted with the European Union (EU) Court's work and meet legal linguists Kristīne Bārdiņa and Kristaps Bērziņš. We also visited the European Court of Auditors, where we had the opportunity to speak with translator Inga Stodere. Additionally, during our visit to the European Commission, we met translator Mairita Drauga. At the Publications Office, I met translator Ieva Rozenberga, who told me about the daily work and the specifics of a translator. We also went to the Luxembourg Ministry of Foreign Affairs and met with Foreign Minister Xavier Bettel, who guided us on a tour. We also visited the European Investment Bank. At each of the visited institutions, we met professionals who shared their experiences, told us about behind-the-scenes work, and encouraged us to engage in practical tasks. The summer school program was intense and packed with activities. There were presentations, thematic workshops, and discussions about language specialists' daily lives, as well as about the role of languages in a broader political and social context. I particularly remember the Luxembourg Foreign Minister's words that diversity is our strength. Of course, one of the summer school themes was also artificial intelligence (AI) and its role in the translation sector. However, this did not raise concerns about the future of the translator profession, but instead inspired us. It was emphasised that the future belongs to those who freely manage AI, and the discussion is about AI managed by translators, not about replacing translators with AI. No less significant was the experience in the informal part – getting to know each other, exchanging thoughts with participants and EU institution representatives, and the spirit of cooperation. This week provided an opportunity not only to gain professional knowledge but also to develop a firm conviction and motivation for translator work. I am especially grateful to the Latvian language section representatives of all the visited institutions. Thank you for the warm welcome and for sharing knowledge! The experience gained at the summer school will serve as a guide for my professional growth. I still think with a smile about every person I met during the summer school week. Luxembourg will now always be a place to return to – in thoughts, languages, or perhaps even as a professional."

A researcher and associate professor from the Faculty of Translation Studies of VUAS, Silga Sviķe, participated in the "Transius Conference 2025" at the University of Geneva, Switzerland, with a research poster presentation titled "Translation of legal documents, drawing up and certification of translation: Latvian practice" from July 7 to 9. The conference was organised by the University of Geneva's Translation Studies Faculty together with the legal and institutional translation studies centre "TRANSIUS". The centre's main objective is to promote research and education in translation studies. The centre achieves this goal by collaborating with translation professionals, particularly from international organisations and Swiss institutions, as well as researchers from other universities. This year marks ten years since the first "Transius" conference, and this is one of the largest conferences on legal text and institutional document translation. The conference brought together and featured research presentations from 250 participants from various countries worldwide. Current research in legal text translation focuses on the use of artificial intelligence tools and large language models in translation, the specifics of document translation and translation certification, translation editing and post-editing, as well as adapting translation study programs to new opportunities. More information about the conference can be found on the conference website: https://transius.unige.ch/en/conferences-and-seminars/international-conferences/tc25/cfp Information prepared by: FTS researcher and associate professor S. Sviķe Group photo author is Transius Centre.

On June 5, representatives from the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and the European Commission visited Ventspils University of Applied Sciences (VUAS) to discuss issues related to the development of academic careers in higher education in Latvia. The purpose of the visit was to gain an understanding of the role, challenges, and opportunities of regional universities, including VUAS, in the implementation of new academic career models. During the meeting, experts met with the university’s management and academic staff to discuss topics such as attracting and retaining academic personnel, career development opportunities, support for professional advancement, and potential collaboration with other institutions in Latvia. The international expert group included Gillian Golden, Project Leader in the OECD Higher Education Policy Team; Thomas Weko, an international higher education expert and researcher at the George Washington Institute of Public Policy (USA); and Kristiāna Egle, a policy analyst in the OECD Higher Education Policy Team. The experts greatly appreciated the opportunity to hear a report from the Executive Director of the Ventspils City Council on the university's role within the city’s ecosystem, the university’s experience and staff perspectives, as well as the opportunity to learn about the university’s development strategies in a regional context. The discussions covered both the challenges and potential solutions that could help improve the development of academic careers in Latvia.

At the end of May, the results of this year's literary competition "Aicinājums" were announced at the Jānis Akuraters Museum, revealing new features of Latvia's future literary scene. The competition, which has been held for 49 years, helps promote the growth of young writers and supports them through various events. This year, participants submitted 87 poetry and prose works for evaluation. The jury, consisting of Džena Andersone, Krista Anna Belševica, Guntis Berelis, Dainis Deigelis, Kristīne Ilziņa, Kristaps Vecgrāvis, and Kaspars Zalāns, selected the best works in each category and age group. In the prose category for the third age group (19–21), prize-winning places, diplomas, and gifts were also awarded to Ilze Jaunzeme (2nd place) and Roberta Šarlote Andersone (3rd place), students of the Bachelor's program "Translation and Language Technology" at the Faculty of Translation Studies, thus earning free tickets to participate in the summer seminar, which will take place from August 11 to 15 at the Jānis Akuraters Museum. Ilze admits that she managed to jump on the "last train," as 21 seemed like the last moment to do so, but the attempt was not in vain and even resulted in a place, participating for the first time: "It is a sign that I need to continue, and it encourages me to be more active in the literary field. I saw so many children who received awards in other age categories. It is heartening to see that so many people love books and writing. This love will pay off." Šarlote comments on the event as follows: "Our debut in 'Aicinājums' was a burst – participating once and for all, we received prize-winning places." She also notes that she was pleased by the comment of writer Kristīne Ilziņa, that each participant present has the opportunity to find their voice, as long as they continue on the path they started and do not give up writing. The laureates of the last age group are offered several opportunities to continue developing their literary careers, such as publication opportunities in literary magazines, participation in creative workshops led by renowned Latvian and foreign authors, and participation in international literature festivals and reading sessions. The next step for young authors could be masterclasses and events organised by the Literary Academy. Ventspils University of Applied Sciences is proud of Ilze's and Šarlote's achievements and wishes them to continue finding their voice in the world of words!

At the beginning of June, Associate Professor Silga Sviķe, Director of the Master’s Programme “Translation and Terminology” at Ventspils University of Applied Sciences, participated in a meeting of the “European Master’s in Translation” (EMT) network in Warsaw, Poland. The event was organized by the Institute of Applied Linguistics at the University of Warsaw and brought together academic representatives, translation industry experts, and representatives of the European Commission to discuss the latest developments in translation education and practice. The meeting took place over two days. On June 2, a colloquium titled “Translating Poland” was held, followed by the main EMT network meeting on June 3 under the theme “Translation Empowered by Technology and Training”. The colloquium addressed topics such as audiovisual translation and artificial intelligence (AI). Special attention was given to the role of subtitles in language learning and the use of AI in dubbing and audio description. The discussion also focused on terminology, plain and easy-to-read language, as well as literary translation. Participants were provided with insights into current research and professional practice. Leading Polish literary translators also took part in the discussion. On the second day of the EMT network event, several key topics were addressed: AI tools and the European Language Data Space: presentation of AI tools developed by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Translation and their application in higher education institutions. Exchange of experiences in working groups: EMT participants discussed competencies gained in translation studies, cooperation with industry professionals, audiovisual translation, terminology, and data usage. Public image of translators and interpreters: a discussion on the societal perception of the translation profession. Critical evaluation of AI implementation: a panel discussion among technology manufacturers, tech companies, and education sector representatives. The meeting concluded with presentations of joint projects by EMT and LIND (“Language Industry Platform”)—covering internship opportunities, continuing education for lecturers, and promotion of the translation profession. Photo: EMT event publicity photos

From May 25 to 30, an international summer school took place in Ferrara, Italy, with the aim to identify and understand the principles of ecological, social, and economic transitions. The Summer school analysed human activity and the impact of climate change on the environment, and developed innovative solutions for sustainable regional development and effective communication. During the summer school, we got to know the city of Ferrara, participated in workshops and discussions, visited the Po Delta region and worked with experts to generate new ideas and solutions for a sustainable future. The Po Delta region, shaped by river sedimentation processes and human intervention, has proven to be not only an ecologically and economically important place but also a deeply symbolic space, a living landscape of memory, adaptation, and survival, where the past flows seamlessly into the present. From the first settlement of Spina in the 6th century BC to the environmental and social transitions of today, the region tells a story of constant change and the human capacity to adapt. Every bend in the canal, fisherman's hut or line of salt-stained trees speaks of resilience, creativity and the ability of the local people to live with their changing environment. We took part in a fascinating series of lectures on the history, environmental and social transitions of the Po region. We heard different perspectives on how the region's unique landscape and historical processes have shaped community identity and everyday life. In addition to the lectures, we actively engaged in discussions, shared our impressions and developed our presentations, reflecting on what we had observed and offering our visions for future possibilities in such transition areas. Our experience in Italy, especially in the Po Delta region, made us realise that this area is not just in transition - it is in transition itself. It is a threshold between past and future, a space continuously shaped by water, politics, climate and human activity. We learned that such landscapes need to be taken holistically, with respect for their environmental, cultural and emotional dimensions. And we also learned something very important: vulnerability is not weakness. On the contrary, the environmental, demographic and climatic vulnerabilities of a region highlight its complexity, value and potential. Tackling these challenges is not enough technological innovation, it also requires trust, historical understanding and political courage. During the week, we not only learnt and went on educational excursions but also made many new friends and valuable contacts from different European countries. The lively work and conversations outside formal activities created a bond that will be hard to forget. This experience demonstrated the importance of transnational and interdisciplinary cooperation. We learned to listen, to collaborate and to translate different knowledge into a common vision while pursuing one of the strongest values of the European Union: unity in diversity. To sum up the week in one message, it would be this: caring for such places is not just a technical task or a moral obligation, it is a form of belonging. We belong to the stories we inherit, the futures we help shape and the places we choose to care for. When we return to our universities, cities and languages, we bring with us both the memory of the region and a commitment to think and act differently - with respect, responsibility and commitment. Press release about the Summer School on the University of Ferrara website: https://www.unife.it/en/unife-world/colours/news-colours/colours-international-summer-school-wrap-up Prepared by: 2nd-year student of FoTS Master's study programme "Translation and Terminology" Ailenda Bulindža-Leitiete; 2nd-year student of FoTS Bachelor's study programme "Intercultural Communication" Karīna Ganiņa; 2nd-year student of FoTS Bachelor's study programme "Translation and Language Technology" Solveiga Lavrane International Summer School was organised within the European Commision project “COLlaborative innOvative sUstainable Regional univerSities” (project No.101124491).

On June 6th, students of the “Translation and Language Technology” program defended their bachelor's theses. The State Examination Commission, led by LU habilitated professor Andrejs Veisbergs, listened to students' reports on various research topics related to translation, translation studies, and linguistics. Several theses explored literary translation and audiovisual translation from different perspectives, as well as machine translation and translations generated by AI tools. One thesis examined easy-to-read language in intralingual translation, while another focused on transediting methods. Several studies were dedicated to special lexis and terminology, covering fields such as sound engineering, cynology, and opera art. The State Examination Commission recognized Darina Kokļina's research on idioms with the lexeme “white” in Russian literature and their equivalents in Latvian and English as excellent. The Commission also highly recognized the papers by Samanta Stumbre for her research on the difficulties and solutions in finding equivalents for sound engineering terms and Anastasija Gremčuka for her work on audiovisual translation methods for beauty product advertising. Fifteen students earned professional bachelor's degrees, and the most daring graduates, following the tradition of Ventspils University of Applied Sciences, jumped into the fountain after their defenses.

On May 21, students and staff members gathered at Ventspils University of Applied Sciences (VUAS) to celebrate the culture day with the topic “Cultural Iceberg”". The event offered an exciting opportunity to engage with representatives from different countries on campus, allowing participants to glimpse different facets of culture, both the visible surface and the deeper layers. Ventspils University of Applied Sciences lecturer Rūta Maltisova opened the event with an introductory speech in which she invited all students present to enjoy this event and get acquainted with the culture. International students and lecturers from 7 different countries presented their cultural backgrounds on the specificities of Latvian, French, Chinese, Turkish, Indian, Spanish and Italian cultures. During the event, students and lecturers presented their country's culture, traditions and stereotypes, entertained the audience and gave the opportunity to taste traditional food and drinks. At the end of the Cultural Day, the participants gathered in an informal atmosphere to share their impressions and enjoy a meal together. The organizers of the event, 1st and 2nd year students of the study program “Intercultural Communication”, Līva and Karīna admit that the event was a great success, as it was widely attended. Both participants and visitors provided good feedback, insights and emphasized that the event allowed them to better discover the hidden layers of each culture that they often do not even think about. The event once again confirmed the active role of Ventspils University College in the cultural life of the city and the creative potential of students. The involvement of students and teaching staff in the annually organized event encourages and develops the multicultural environment at Ventspils University of Applied Sciences, allowing everyone to express themselves and be included. More pictures from the event are available here: https://failiem.lv/u/ts2jrykn7t (In the situation of publishing these photos, please give credit to the author of photos – Endijs Eihlers.) Photos: Endijs Eihlers Author: 2nd year student of the bachelor's study program "Intercultural Communication" Karīna Ganiņa

The traveling exhibition “Research Latvia 2025”, created by the Ministry of Education and Science, offers a unique opportunity to explore 12 outstanding Latvia’s scientists and their contributions to the development of society and research. Until June 25, this diverse exhibition will be available for viewing at the Concert Hall "Latvia", Lielais laukums 1, Ventspils. Twelve distinguished scientists representing 12 leading Latvian research institutions highlight the strength and diversity of Latvian science within the European Research Area. In collaboration with the science communication platform researchLatvia , the “Research Latvia 2025” exhibition and calendar showcase research topics that impact our society, environment, and culture. In June, special attention is given to the research contributions of the Ventspils University of Applied Sciences and its role in advancing science.