entspils University of Applied Sciences conference University of Tomorrow and Christmas Conference has concluded

December 17, 2020

On 10 December, in Ventspils University of Applied Sciences (VUAS) an international conference University of Tomorrow took place. Concurrently, the Modernisation Conference, which VUAS organised for the first time, and the Christmas Conference which is an annual scientific activity event at the university, took place. Considering the restrictions set by the government, University of Tomorrow took place remotely, thus giving opportunity for everyone to follow the course of the conference.


University of Tomorrow was opened with the introductory words of VUAS rector Professor Kārlis Krēsliņš, marking the growth of VUAS in the direction of study process modernisation and scientific activity. The scholarship of Professor Andris Klauss was also presented at the beginning of the conference. The patron of the scholarship Mārtiņš Lauva admitted that it was difficult to choose the scholarship receiver this year because all the candidates were worthy of the scholarship. Upon making the decision, a student of the Faculty of Translation Studies, Agate Freiberga, received the scholarship.


The first part of the conference focused on the quality of studies, its supervision and management in higher education institutions, teaching methods and the growth of the academic staff. Also, the audience was acquainted with the project Improvement of the Quality of the Content of the Ventspils University of Applied Sciences Study Programme, Improving the Efficiency of the Use of Resources, and Ensuring Better Governance. The conference University of Tomorrow was organised within the framework of this project. Maija Cēbere, Deputy Head of the Science and Development Department of VUAS, spoke more about the news of this project. Vice-rector of the Business University Turība associated professor Daina Vasiļevska shared Turība`s experience in ensuring good governance and study quality. It is worthwhile for all lecturers to get acquainted with the associate director of the RSU Centre for Educational Growth Prof. Nora Jansone-Ratinika`s presentation which reviewed various teaching methods and application possibilities in the study process, with emphasis on distance learning. The first part of the conference was concluded by Brigita Kukjalko, a senior expert of the Structural Funds Department of the Ministry of Education and Science who presented the upcoming changes in the academic career. These changes promise to organise the positions of the academic staff and their distribution.


As the conference continued, viewers could choose to continue following the Modernisation Conference or join the VUAS scientific event – the Christmas Conference. Those who chose the first option heard nine different presentations about the distance learning experience, opportunities for improvement and challenges faced by both lecturers and students. Along with these topics, the Rector of VUAS outlined the implementation of the new doctoral model in VUAS. Experts of the Study Department of VUAS Gints Dreifogels, Toms Urdze and Ivo Čapiņš presented the currently available distance learning tools at VUAS. The new Chairperson of the VUAS Student Council Lāsma Lubāne analysed the results of the student survey on the technical provision of the distance learning process, concluding that VUAS students are satisfied with the technic equipment of the university, however, some improvements are still to be made. Guntis Čoders, Deputy Director of the study programme Start-Up Management, also participated in the conference, talking about the importance of coaching and competence education. Competence-based education is one of the theses that has been said a lot on a national scale, so it was interesting to hear the implementation of this model in the programme Start-Up Management. Thanks to the remote format of the conference, without any long trips, Professor Martin Waiguny, Director of International study programmes at the University of Applied Sciences Krems, was also able to participate. The professor shared his experience of implementing distance learning at VUAS cooperation university in Krems and suggested specific things that could be implemented by VUAS. Two guest lecturers from the Faculty of Translation Studies (FTS), Goksel Ozturk and Murat Bayrak, from the Bursa Technical University, Turkey, compared the traditional full-time study process with the current situation, as well as highlighted the challenges of distance studies in linguistics. Continuing in the field of linguistics, the Dean of FTS Artūrs Viļums presented two digital research tools in linguistics which are used more and more often by students at the beginning of the new study format. VUAS IT faculty was also represented at the conference. Its dean, Vairis Caune, gave an insight into the daily life of the faculty and how the studies are currently organised, which online tools help lectures to happen and how to move forward so that the study process does not lose the quality during distance learning. The closing speech of the conference was from the lecturer of the Faculty of IT Jesus Cazares, who spoke with the personal motivation, inviting students and lecturers to adapt to the new format and to find better solutions to improve the quality of teaching.


The Christmas Conference brought together researchers and scientists from VUAS to look back at the achievements at the end of the year. Introducing colleagues, students and others to the results of their research – both theoretical and practical – ten researchers from Ventspils University of Applied Sciences participated in the conference. The fields represented in the reports were various – engineering, natural sciences, linguistics and translation science, as well as economics and business. The main motive of the conference was the development and vision for the future. The director of Ventspils International Radio Astronomy Centre (VIRAC) Aleksejs Klokovs in his report Space Centre in Latvia and Space Industry Development provided a vision for further development of VIRAC. The leading researcher of VIRAC Manfrēds Šneps-Šneppe further analysed the development perspective. Researcher Vladislavs Bezrukovs gave two presentations – one on current events in the VIRAC radio observations and the other Friendyno - small power generator with the rotor linear motion – on his practical research. Two young VIRAC researchers in electronic engineering Andrejs Dzelme and Emīls Vēveris presented the results of practical research in a report Mobile Device Charger for a Bicycle Generator. The young researchers proved the ability to perform and present their research independently. Jesus Cazares, a lecturer at the Faculty of IT, also spoke in this part of the conference presenting his report A Method for the Composition of Piecewise Defined Functions. Representatives of all three faculties of VUAS also presented interesting and topical research. Valentīna Semakina, a visiting lecturer at the Faculty of Economics and Management (FEM), presented a report Dynamic Stochastic Models of General Equilibrium prepared with the co-author professor Sergejs Hiļķevičs, the lead researcher at VIRAC. FTS representatives Baiba Egle and Ralfs Raitis Vecmanis presented a report Latvian Scientific Language Database – Development and Content. The final report of the conference given by the Faculty of Translation Studies guest lecturer Elizabete Kadakovska Interaction of Medical and Translation Sciences was relevant in the context of the current situation. The conference provided an optimistic view of VUAS research and a chance for experienced and young VUAS researchers to meet. 

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Student participation in COLOURS summer school in Germany

By Rota Rulle • August 11, 2025
Ventspils University of Applied Sciences Faculty of Translation Studies Bachelor’s degree student of “Translation and Language Technology” Matīss Jansons and Bachelor’s degree student of “Intercultural Communication” Līva Slesare participated in an exciting summer school “Responsible Digitalization: AI, Social Media and their Contribution to a Sustainable Society”, which took place from 21st to 25th of July in Paderborn, Germany. The aim of the summer school was to provide a learning experience about sustainable use of artificial intelligence and digital technologies for the benefit of society, while promoting collaboration, practical innovation and cultural exchange. The summer school program was intense and dynamic – lectures, workshops and discussions led by lecturers and guest lecturers took place throughout the day, covering the practical application of artificial intelligence, its ethical and social aspects, issues of power, prejudice and everyday life. Each day provided new insights and encouraged students to think about the role of technology in the future society. Outside of lectures, students from Latvia, as well as from various other countries, had the opportunity to go on guided tours and get to know the city of Paderborn in Germany and its ancient history, see the world's largest computer museum "Heinz Nixdorf MuseumsForum", as well as have informal conversations and make new contacts. Students admit that the opportunity to work in international teams with participants from several COLOURS alliance universities was very valuable. This diversity promoted the exchange of experience and allowed for different approaches to solving problems related to artificial intelligence. Dr. François Vignale's (Le Mans University) lecture on the identification of AI-generated and biased content also aroused special interest, providing practical knowledge and sparking a discussion about these problems in society. This experience gives students the opportunity to gain new knowledge, opening a broader view of the everyday life of students at other European universities, exchanging opinions and creating contacts and future friendships. Read more about the summer school on the COLOURS website: https://colours-alliance.eu/event/international-summer-school-on-responsible-digitalization-ai-social-media-and-their-contribution-to-a-sustainable-society/

Latvian scientists develop unique instrument to studies variable astrophysical radio sources

By Rota Rulle • July 30, 2025
Today, the field of radio astronomy has experienced a resurgence in ‘transient’ science, with more and more astronomical phenomena found to be active on timescales of months, weeks, and even within a single day. For example, high-mass stars form in short, intense bursts of mass accretion that display active variations on day-long timescales. The use of single-baseline interferometers (two telescopes connected together) has been known in astronomy since the 1940s. However, demand for this observing technique was soon overtaken by the development of interferometers comprising large numbers of radio telescope dishes. As demand for aperture synthesis arrays increased, the time available for each observing programme became more limited. The recent emphasis on transient science has renewed the demand for facilities capable of high-cadence monitoring of brightness variations in radio emission—an area in which the now uncommon single-baseline radio interferometer is particularly well suited. The aim of this project is the development of the Irbene Single-Baseline Interferometer (ISBI), designed to detect variations in the radio emission associated with high-mass star-forming regions. The ISBI will be used to monitor both radio continuum and maser emission from high-mass protostars. This will enable clearer distinctions to be drawn between currently untested and competing theoretical models proposed to explain the enigmatic variability recently linked to the formation of high-mass stars. With recent discoveries confirming rapid accretion bursts in high-mass protostars, time-domain radio astronomy has become a key frontier in understanding the formation of massive stars. These short-lived accretion episodes give rise to measurable variations in both radio continuum and maser emission. However, existing large-scale arrays are often oversubscribed and are not optimised for long-term, targeted monitoring of such sources. “The method will enable clearer distinctions to be drawn between currently untested and competing theoretical models proposed to explain the enigmatic variability recently linked to the formation of high-mass stars.” High-cadence, long-term monitoring, such as that possible by ISBI, greatly benefits from automation, which makes it much easier to carry out long-term, frequent monitoring of space signals, from planning observations to processing the data. Latvian scientists have created a unique set of tools and automated systems for the ISBI, turning it into a one-of-a-kind instrument with capabilities not found anywhere else. ISBI stands out because, unlike single-dish telescopes or large VLBI arrays, it can both detect weak signals and track them regularly over time. This makes it ideal for studying the changing radio emissions of massive star-forming regions, helping researchers understand processes like matter falling onto stars and the jets they eject. Thanks to automation, almost the whole workflow runs smoothly, allowing continuous and efficient monitoring of these fascinating cosmic events.

Business Management students attend summer school at Le Mans University, France

By Rota Rulle • July 25, 2025
From June 26 to July 5, 2025, third-year Business Management students Mārtiņš Didzis Gailis and Daniels Balcers from Ventspils University of Applied Sciences participated in the COLOURS project summer school "Scientific Project Management: From Idea to Funded EU Project", which took place at the University of Le Mans, France. The aim of the programme was to provide students with theoretical and practical knowledge in scientific project management, with a particular focus on attracting European Union funding. The program was organized in a combined format – with online classes on June 26 and 27 and in-person activities at the University of Le Mans from July 1 to 5. During the online sessions, students learned about the project life cycle, European Union project evaluation criteria, the use of Gantt and PERT charts, risk analysis, and budgeting. The in-person sessions included practical workshops on stakeholder mapping and Horizon Europe funding opportunities, as well as the development and presentation of students' final projects in the form of a simulated competition. The program also included a visit to the Le Mans 24 Hours Museum and participation in the international event "Le Mans Classic," where students gained insight into the organization and management of high-level events. Daniels says that he is very interested in everything related to cars and motorsports, so he was particularly excited to attend the Le Mans Classic race – it was a great opportunity to get to know one of the world's most legendary racing events, see classic racing cars in action, and experience the authentic atmosphere that reigns in this historic place. Mārtiņš admitted that he had visited France before, but Le Mans left an even deeper impression on him – quieter, more authentic and with a strong historical presence. He particularly liked the historic atmosphere of the city, the enthusiasm for motorsport and how open and friendly the local people were. "To be honest, we regret a little that we didn't take advantage of such opportunities earlier during our studies – they provide not only knowledge, but also a broader view of the world, people and ourselves. That's why we especially encourage other students and young people to be active, take advantage of the international programs on offer, and not be afraid of challenges – these are experiences that create unforgettable memories," the guys admit. Participation in this program provided students with valuable experience in project planning, risk assessment, budgeting, and international communication. The knowledge and skills they gained will be useful both in their future studies and professional activities.

Faculty of Translation Studies Represented at the EU Multilingualism Summer School in Luxembourg

By Rota Rulle • July 21, 2025
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."

TSF researchers' participation in an international conference in Geneva

By Rota Rulle • July 14, 2025
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.

Researcher from VUAS reveals conditions that influenced the beginning of planet formation

By Rota Rulle • July 4, 2025
The planets of the Solar System formed from fine interstellar dust particles. As the interstellar cloud (which would later become the Solar System) condensed, the dust particles gradually sticked together. As this process continued in the disk around the proto-Sun, they grew to the size of sand grains, peas, beans, pebbles, etc., until the “dust” the size of flying mountains continued growing by attracting material with their own gravity.
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