Researchers present the results of the study at the 84th International Scientific Conference organized by the University of Latvia.
April 20, 2026
On April 14, Professor Una Libkovska and doctoral students Monta Anšica and Zane Zonberga of Ventspils University of Applied Sciences participated in the 84th International Scientific Conference of the University of Latvia within the framework of the State Research Programme project “Elaboration of evidence-based solutions for effective professional competence development of adults and assessment of the transfer of its results into practice in Latvia” (VPP-IZM-Izglitiba-2023/4-0001).
During the conference session titled “Key Aspects of Entrepreneurship and Management in Strengthening Global Competitiveness,” the results of the study were presented and a report was delivered on the topic “Strategic Management Competencies and Their Impact on Organizational Competitiveness.”
The conference section was intended as a platform for scientists, researchers and practitioners to share ideas, insights and research on current issues of sustainable development. It addressed a wide audience, from academic researchers to representatives of companies and the public sector. All speakers were invited to participate in original studies, situational analyses and experiential stories. Scientists, experts, entrepreneurs and academics from different countries participated in the discussions, promoting international exchange of experience and cooperation. The conference paid special attention to the development of education and human capital, the introduction of science-based innovations, attracting investments and the development of competitive projects in Latvia and Europe.
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The modern work environment is undergoing rapid change, and companies are increasingly seeking solutions to improve employee well-being. Last week, the hackathon “Workplace Reinvented” took place at Ventspils University of Applied Sciences, where over three days students developed solutions to challenges posed by companies from Ventspils, focusing on strengthening employees’ physical and mental health. During the hackathon, inspiring lectures were delivered by “Vesels Birojs” founder Laima Buša, director of Ventspils Music High School Jēkabs Macpans, and public speaking specialist Rūta Maltisova. At the end of the hackathon, students presented their ideas, which were evaluated by a jury. The three best teams were awarded a total prize fund of €2,000: 1st place and €1,000 went to the team “Slippies” with their solution “Pawse” – a service providing regular dog visits to offices, carried out by trusted and experienced dog walkers. Such visits were intended to improve well-being in the workplace, resulting in higher work efficiency. 2nd place and €600 went to the team “Taij” with an idea of integrating treadmills into the work environment, emphasizing that this solution could improve employees’ concentration, decision-making, and reduce fatigue caused by sedentary work. 3rd place and €400 went to the team “Enviora” , which developed an artificial intelligence office assistant aimed at improving employee well-being. Throughout the hackathon, participant teams were supported by experienced mentors, including Sandra Žukova (head of the regional office of the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia in Ventspils), mentors of the “Startup Management” study program Elviss Brauns and Atis Mertens, and Ventspils Music High School director Jēkabs Macpans. On the second day, mentoring was provided by VUAS HR department head Elīna Feldmane and senior specialist Raitis Didrihsons, head of the Science and Development Department Vitālijs Petkevičs, mentor and lecturer Āris Birze, ASYA customer support team leader and VUAS alumna Marta Anete Vinniņa, and HR WellBe founder Vija Niedre. In addition to developing ideas, participants also had the opportunity to strengthen team spirit and take care of their well-being outside of work sessions. The students visited the Adventure Park in Ventspils, where they tried disc golf and a ride on the toboggan track, and also took part in meditation sessions. The hackathon was supported by Alpro, Paulig, SaltCave, Ventspils Adventure Park, Rimi, and Red Bull. The event was implemented within the COLOURS European University Alliance, bringing together students from Latvia as well as partner universities in Italy and Germany. More photos are available HERE Ventspils Augstskolas Hackathon "Workplace reinvented" Password: ventspils2026
We invite YOU to another cozy TEA & TALKS afternoon! This time we will talk about May 4th "Day of the Restauration of the Republic of Latvia" and why it is so important for Latvia! We will also make a traditional Latvian dish - so make sure to keep your afternoon free to not miss out on valuable insights and food! As always, you are welcome to bring snacks and your cup as there will be tea! Everybody is welcome to join! Where & when? Date: 7th May 2026 Time: 17:00 Place: D0 We are looking forward to seeing you and your friends!
Doctoral students Zane Zonberga in collaboration with Monta Anšica on the project “Elaboration of evidence-based solutions for effective professional competence development of adults and assessment of the transfer of its results into practice in Latvia” (Project No. VPP-IZM-Izglītība-2023/4-0001) and my colleague Rimants Jeļinskis from the EPF joint doctoral program “Economics and Business”, participated in a five-day doctoral workshop at the University of Le Mans in France Participation in the Erasmus+ mobility program was specifically aimed at strengthening the framework of the project and the empirical research for my dissertation, as well as gaining an international perspective to evaluate and ensure that the developed solution is applicable not only in the Latvian context, but also on an international scale. The doctoral workshop at the University of Le Mans was a very valuable and, at the same time, quite intensive experience for me. University representatives had put together a well-thought-out program that combined an introduction to the academic environment, practical sessions, and opportunities to meet other doctoral students. On the very first day, students got to know each other, met with mentors, and toured the university, as well as observed the academic process in other programs. Over the following days, students participated in sessions on research methods and the use of academic resources, visited laboratories, and listened to presentations by other doctoral students, which provided a valuable insight into various research areas. They also had the opportunity to learn more about future career opportunities after completing our doctoral studies. Students especially enjoyed working in groups with people from other countries. In almost every activity, students were divided into different groups, which forced us to step outside our comfort zone and quickly find common ground with new researchers. On the fourth day, the workshops took place at an art museum, where we worked in teams to find solutions to future challenges and prepared pitch presentations. It was both challenging and interesting, as it required not only new ideas, but also the ability to present them clearly and convincingly. During this time, students also got to know many colleagues with whom they might collaborate on joint projects or work together in the future. This experience provided an opportunity to gain new knowledge that can be applied in the future both in the project’s research and in the development of the doctoral thesis.
At Irbene and Riga, 20–21 April 2026, a significant international scientific and academic event - the strategic seminar “Latvia’s National Partnership within LOFAR ERIC”- was held in Latvia, bringing together leading European radio astronomers, national policymakers, and academic institutions to strengthen Latvia’s long-term involvement in the LOFAR ERIC (Low Frequency Array – European Research Infrastructure Consortium) network. The meeting marked an important step in building a coordinated Latvian LOFAR community, bringing together Ventspils University of Applied Sciences, Riga Technical University, the University of Latvia, alongside other Latvian universities, and supporting stronger collaboration in radio astronomy, data science, and related technologies. Keynote presentations were delivered by Prof. Peter T. Gallagher (Ireland), Chair of the LOFAR-ERIC Council, and Prof. Michiel van Haarlem (Netherlands), Executive Director of LOFAR-ERIC. They were joined by directors of international LOFAR stations and leading experts from Ireland, the Netherlands, Sweden, France, Bulgaria, and Poland, as well as representatives from Latvia’s Ministry of Education and Science, the Ministry of Economics, and universities. Discussions focused on Latvia’s future participation in LOFAR-ERIC, highlighting its strategic location, research capabilities, and growing role in European research infrastructures. A central outcome is a shared commitment to fostering a national LOFAR consortium and strengthening Latvia’s integration into European research programmes. The event brought together researchers, early-career scientists, and students, underlining Latvia’s growing appeal in astrophysics and space research, as well as LOFAR’s broad scientific impact across signal processing, big data analytics, and machine learning. On 20 April, participants visited the Ventspils International Radio Astronomy Centre (VIRAC) in Irbene, where they toured the RT-32 radio telescope and the LOFAR Irbene station (LV614), gaining insight into Latvia’s radio astronomy infrastructure and recent technological upgrades. The meeting confirmed strong momentum toward establishing a cohesive national LOFAR ecosystem in Latvia, supported by close cooperation between universities, government institutions, and international LOFAR-ERIC leadership. The event was organised as part of the project “International Cooperation and Innovation of Ventspils University of Applied Sciences for the Development of Latvia’s Smart Specialisation” (Project No. 1.1.1.5/3/25/I/012).
We are excited to invite you to the annual VUAS Culture Days 2026 – an interactive event organised by 1st year Intercultural Communication students. This years' topic: Cultural Minefield: Step Carefully Explore the unspoken rules of culture and test your instincts in real-life situations. During the event, you will: Take part in interactive quizzes Engage with real-life cultural scenarios Gain practical cultural insights You will also hear from representatives from Croatia, Ukraine, Germany, India, Turkey, Latvia and Ghana, who will share cultural taboos, etiquette rules, and common “tourist mistakes”. Bonus for the on-site participants: “The Flavor of My Culture” table. Participants are warmly invited to bring a homemade dish or drink that represents their culture and share it with others. When? May 6 At what time? 16:00 (EEST) (3:00 PM CET) Where? Room D0 and online – https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89909358229 This event is designed to be practical, engaging, and memorable – whether you are preparing for international experiences or simply curious about cultural differences. In order to participate, please register here: https://forms.gle/pR9QvZirzf3nwne97
On April 24, Ventspils University of Applied Sciences welcomed Deputy Head of Mission from Embassies of Denmark (Alexander Lemche), Lithuania (Vilius Arlauskas), and 1 st Secretary at the Swedish Embassy Hugo Qvinth for a guest lecture that brought global perspectives directly into the auditorium. The diplomatic representatives engaged with students in an open discussion on diplomacy, international cooperation, and the realities of representing one’s country on the global stage. The visit highlighted the strength of the Nordic-Baltic partnership, often referred to as the NB8, which is an informal yet highly integrated cooperation network of eight countries united by shared democratic values and a commitment to collaboration. As emphasized during the lecture, this alliance of 33 million people demonstrates how countries can achieve more together than alone, becoming not only stronger internally but also more influential internationally. Students were introduced to the idea that diplomacy is not just about politics, but about people, communication, and responsibility. The diplomats spoke openly about their career paths, stressing that there is no single “correct” background for entering diplomacy. Instead, curiosity, initiative, and a willingness to step outside one’s comfort zone are the key factors. A recurring theme throughout the session was courage. Students were encouraged to ask questions, seek international experiences, and remain open to change. “Everything comes from curiosity,” Vilius Arlauskas noted, highlighting the importance of exploration both professionally and personally. The discussion also addressed the realities behind the diplomat's profession. Diplomacy requires adaptability, resilience, and the ability to navigate complex global challenges. From balancing personal life with a demanding international career to representing national interests with precision and responsibility, the speakers provided an honest insight into both the rewards and challenges of the field. Beyond career advice, the guest seminar emphasized the power of communication. Understanding one’s audience, preparing strong arguments, and delivering clear and precise messages were highlighted as essential skills not only for diplomats, but for anyone working in an international environment. As Hugo Qvinth emphasized, “for a diplomat, the most important thing is to know many languages”, highlighting how language serves as a bridge between cultures and people. The event concluded with an interactive Q&A session, where students had the opportunity to engage directly with the diplomats, ask questions, and gain personal insights. The atmosphere remained open, encouraging, and genuinely inspiring which left many students motivated to explore international careers and opportunities. This visit served as a powerful reminder that diplomacy is not distant or abstract – it is built on human connection, curiosity, and the courage to step into the unknown. Written by: Elizabete Apiņa-Fleisa (BSP “Intercultural Communication”, 1st year)
