PROJECT
Elaboration of evidence-based solutions for effective professional competence developments of adults and assessment of the transfer of its results into practice in Latvia
Project title: 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's No: VPP-IZM-Izglītība-2023/4-0001
Project acronym: VPP4
Project's partners: University of Latvia (UL), RTU Liepaja, Ventspils University of Applied Sciences (VUAS).
Project's scientific manager: UL FESP SIP leading researcher Svetlana Surikova.
Project's duration: December 22, 2023 – December 21, 2026
Project's total budget: 730 000 EUR
Contacts:
Project scientific head (VeA) – Dr. sc. administr. Una Libkovska, una.libkovska@venta.lv
Project coordinator for administrative matters – Linda Ūdre, linda.udre@venta.lv
Project's summary:
The goal of the project is to elaborate an evidence-based framework and practical solutions for effective professional development of adults, including teachers, and the transfer of its results into practice, offering tools for assessing the impact of professional development on practice in Latvia. Implementing a design-based research approach, it is intended to carry out a systemic study of the transfer of professional competence development of adults, including teachers, into practice, its main obstacles and tools for measuring effectiveness, analysing theoretical knowledge and international experience in coherence of the context and needs of Latvia. The impact of the results of current professional competence development of adults, including teachers, on practice in Latvia will be analysed, considering the context of existing policy priorities and ongoing reforms. An evidence-based framework for effective professional competence development of adults, including teachers, and for the transfer of its results into practice will be developed, offering validated practical solutions for assessing the effectiveness of the professional development in organisational and system levels in accordance with the Latvian context and current educational policy goals. The results of the research will be presented in at least five international scientific conferences. It is envisaged that within the project four articles will be submitted or accepted for publication and three articles will be published in WoS or Scopus indexed journals and proceedings. It is planned that by the end of the project, two Master's theses will be defended. The results of the research will contribute to evidence-based decision-making on promoting the effectiveness of professional development of adults, including teachers, and the achievement of strategic education development objectives, as well as it will generate new knowledge and practical solutions at educational institution, local and national levels.
The objectives of the project:
- To analyse the scientific literature on the transfer of professional competence development of adults, including teachers, to practise, to identify theoretical concepts, processes, indicators of effectiveness, identifying target groups of adults, including teachers.
- Identify and describe international good practice in the transfer of professional competence development of adults, including teachers, to practise, identifying barriers and solutions, including in relation to the Latvian context and needs.
- To analyse the current situation in Latvia regarding the transfer of the results of professional competence development of adults, including teachers, to practise, by analysing the policy in Latvia, the results of research commissioned by public institutions, conducting focused interviews with a variety of target groups, and discussing the results with expert groups.
- To analyse instruments for measuring the effectiveness of the transfer of professional competence development of adults, including teachers, to practice, and to identify the possibilities of their use in the Latvian context.
- To develop and validate a framework for effective professional competence development of adults, including teachers, at the organisational and system level in the Latvian context in the private and public sectors.
- To develop practical solutions for ensuring effective professional competence development of adults, including teachers, and evaluating the effectiveness of transfer to practise at organisational and system level in Latvia.
- Communicate the results of the research (presentations at conferences, preparation and publication of scientific publications) throughout all research cycles.
Results:
The results of the research will be presented in at least five international scientific conferences. It is envisaged that within the project four articles will be submitted or accepted for publication and three articles will be published in Web of Science or Scopus indexed journals and proceedings. It is planned that by the end of the project, two Master's theses will be defended and one PhD thesis will be submitted for defence. Two conferences will be organized on the results of the project in the middle and at the end of the project. Regular press releases, social media publications and popular scientific articles will be used to inform the society about the progress of the project and the results achieved.
The results of the research will contribute to evidence-based decision-making on promoting the effectiveness of professional development of adults, including teachers, and the achievement of strategic education development objectives, as well as it will generate new knowledge and practical solutions at educational institution, local and national levels.
PROJECT NEWS
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.
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.
On March 5–7, 2026, the Latvian Academy of Sciences hosted the 8th International Forum of Humanistic Economics “ Innovative Economy in a Time of Geopolitical Change ”, dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the Latvian Academy of Sciences. Researchers from Ventspils University of Applied Sciences, Professor Una Libkovska and doctoral student Monta Anšica, participated in the forum, presenting research findings on the importance and development of management competences as a strategic investment in the development of organizations operating in knowledge-intensive sectors and promoting sustainable development, 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). The main objective of the forum defined the promotion of dialogue between science, business and policy makers in search of solutions for sustainable economic growth, the development of innovation and the acquisition of new export markets. The forum brought together scientists, entrepreneurs, policymakers, investors and international experts from European, American and Asian countries to discuss the importance of innovation in economic development in a time of change. During the discussions, special attention was paid 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. During the forum, plenary sessions were held in which international experts analysed global economic development trends, the importance of innovation in technological advancement, and the role of human capital in ensuring sustainable growth. The programme also included thematic workshops and discussion sessions addressing current issues related to economic development, including the role of artificial intelligence and high technologies in shaping modern economies. Scientists from different countries, innovation policy experts, entrepreneurs, and representatives of the academic community participated in the discussions, fostering international exchange of experience and strengthening cooperation. The insights gained at the forum promote the use of research results in practice and help to develop knowledge transfer, which is essential for strengthening the competitiveness of the Latvian economy.
A student of the joint doctoral study programme “Economics and Entrepreneurship” implemented by Ventspils University of Applied Sciences, Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences, and RTU Rēzekne Academy – Sanita Lasmane – has successfully defended her doctoral thesis titled “ Analysis and Improvement of Labour Market Assessment Approaches: A Case Study of Latvia ” and has been awarded the Doctor of Science (Ph.D.) degree in Social Sciences. The aim of the dissertation is to adapt labour market assessment methods to the specific conditions of Latvia, based on scientific literature and statistical analysis. Innovative solutions in economic modelling Within the research, the author conducted an extensive analysis of labour market theories and schools of economic thought. One of the most significant contributions of the thesis is related to the improvement of the Cobb–Douglas production function. Sanita Lasmane proposes two new estimation approaches adapted to Latvian conditions: analysis based on traditional resources (capital and labour), an experimental approach in which traditional resources are replaced by potential “invisible” agents in the economy — banks and companies . Such an approach allows for a more detailed assessment of the actual impact of resources on gross domestic product (GDP). Quantitative Assessment of Human Capital Special attention in the dissertation is devoted to human capital in Latvia. The author has developed a new approach for the quantitative assessment of human capital at both national and regional levels. This method is unique in that it is tailored to the Latvian context and relies on regularly available data, enabling timely monitoring of changes in the labour market. Practical Significance of the Research The research by S. Lasmane provides concrete recommendations for policymakers and industry experts. The proposed recommendations focus on: promoting productivity growth , fostering the development of human capital in Latvia’s regions , improving the identification of labour market issues through an in-depth analysis of policy planning documents and statistical data. Congratulations and we are proud of this achievement! The work was developed with the support of the project “Development of Evidence-Based Solutions for the Effective Improvement of Adult Professional Competence and the Evaluation of the Transfer of Its Results into Practice in Latvia” (Project No. VPP-IZM-Izglītība-2023/4-0001).
On January 16 within the framework of the State Research Programme of Ventspils University of Applied Sciences, Professor Una Libkovska, within the framework of the State Research Programme project "Development of evidence-based solutions for the effective improvement of professional competence of adults and assessment of the transfer of its results to practice in Latvia" (VPP-IZM-Education-2023/4-0001), participated in a meeting with entrepreneurs organized by the State Education Development Agency and the Ventspils State City Education Board on opportunities and challenges for adult learning. During the meeting, the opportunities offered by the skills management platform STARS for adult continuing education and professional upskilling were discussed, with a particular focus on the European Union projects "Training for Workers" and "Digital Skills for Experts". The discussions emphasize the importance of employers in providing support to employees in the process of starting training, as well as the need to establish purposeful cooperation between entrepreneurs, local government and educational institutions. VIAA's Department of Adult Education presented the learning opportunities offered by the STARS platform, as well as the necessary support for employed adults to start their studies and the role of the municipality in providing this support. In the second part of the event, meetings were held with municipal specialists and adult education organizers, representatives of youth and cultural work and other interested parties. The discussion discussed ways to strengthen cooperation in adult education, as well as identifying the necessary support from VIAA in reaching out to adults and motivating them to engage in learning. The event brought together more than 20 representatives of business and institutions of Ventspils municipality, who actively participated in discussions, shared their experience and expressed proposals for improving the adult education offer. The meeting reaffirmed that coordinated and targeted cooperation between state institutions, local governments, educational institutions and employers is an essential prerequisite for the effective development of adult skills, strengthening competitiveness and sustainable employment.
On 17 December, the annual Ventspils University of Applied Sciences Christmas Conference was held at Ventspils University of Applied Sciences, during which the university’s academic staff and researchers presented research findings and results. Within the framework of the National Research Programme project “Development of Evidence-Based Solutions for the Effective Improvement of Adult Professional Competence and the Evaluation of the Transfer of Its Results into Practice in Latvia” (VPP-IZM-Izglītība-2023/4-0001), researchers of the National Research Programme from Ventspils University of Applied Sciences Una Libkovska, Liene Resele-Dūšele and Zane Zonberga had the opportunity to participate in a scientific discussion and share their research experience.
Professor at Ventspils University of Applied Sciences, researcher of the State Research Programme Una Libkovska participates in the 3rd International Scientific Conference International Conference on Advancing Sustainable Futures. Shaping the Future: Synergies Between Nature, Technology and Society On 10–11 December 2025, Professor Una Libkovska, researcher within the National Research Programme project “Development of evidence-based solutions for the effective improvement of professional competence of adults and the assessment of the transfer of its results to practice in Latvia” (VPP-IZM-Izglītība-2023/4-0001), participated in the 3rd International Scientific Conference “Advancing Sustainable Futures: Shaping the Future: Synergies Between Nature, Technology, and Society (ICASF 2025)”, organised by Abu Dhabi University and held in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. During the conference, the project’s key insights and research outcomes were presented and discussed within the scientific programme, including a paper entitled “Contribution of Sustainable Human Resource Management to Organizational Sustainability and Labour Market Transformation”. The ICASF 2025 conference brought together more than 200 participants from over 30 countries, who took part in the thematic scientific sections and presented research spanning the natural sciences, engineering and technology, social sciences, economics, and interdisciplinary studies, addressing global challenges and solutions related to sustainable development. Participants represented Europe, Asia, North America, and Africa, including Latvia, the Netherlands, Poland, Italy, the United Kingdom, France, Lithuania, the United States, Canada, India, Japan, and other countries. Participation in the conference provided valuable opportunities to expand international research cooperation, strengthen institutional partnerships, and engage in global dialogue on shaping a sustainable future. It also enabled the validation of research results within a broad international academic audience and supported knowledge transfer related to sustainable development policy, professional competence development, and the challenges of lifelong learning.
On 28 November 2025, researchers of the National Research Programme from Ventspils University of Applied Sciences Professor Una Libkovska and doctoral student Monta Anšica participated in the Kurzeme Business Forum “BALTIC DEFENCE INVESTMENT PITCH 2025” within the framework of the National Research Programme project “Development of Evidence-Based Solutions for the Effective Improvement of Adult Professional Competence and the Evaluation of the Transfer of Its Results into Practice in Latvia” (VPP-IZM-Izglītība-2023/4-0001). The forum brought together entrepreneurs, startup representatives, policymakers and investors to foster a shared understanding of the development of modern and sustainable industries and to jointly shape a next-generation business environment. The main theme of the event was the development of the defence and security industry in the Baltic region, with a particular focus on high-tech solutions, innovation, and investment attraction opportunities. The forum also hosted “Baltic Defence Investment Pitch 2025”, the first Baltic-wide investment pitch event in the field of defence technologies, where companies presented their solutions to potential investors. This initiative encouraged dialogue between innovators and capital providers, creating real opportunities for transforming ideas into competitive products and services. By attending the forum, the researchers gained valuable insights into the Latvian startup ecosystem, its operational specifics and development challenges, as well as the perspectives of local and international investors on companies’ growth potential. The knowledge acquired contributed to a broader understanding of current trends in modern industry development, the role of innovation in the national economy, and contemporary trends in workforce development. The forum’s thematic focus and the insights gained through discussions are closely related to the objectives of the National Research Programme project and the doctoral research, particularly in the context of adult professional competence development, knowledge transfer into practice, and the advancement of labour market relevant skills.
On 21 November 2025, Monta Anšica, a doctoral student and researcher of the National Research Programme at Ventspils University of Applied Sciences, participated as a listener in the conference “National Economy Conference 2025” organised by the Latvijas Banka. Her participation took place within the framework of the National Research Programme project “Development of Evidence-Based Solutions for the Effective Improvement of Adult Professional Competence and the Evaluation of the Transfer of Its Results into Practice in Latvia” (VPP-IZM-Izglītība-2023/4-0001). The annual national economy conference organised by the Bank of Latvia sought to address the key question of what is required to ensure that lending activity in Latvia remains sustainable in the future and continues to support economic growth. During the discussion panel “How to Increase Competition in Corporate Lending?”, the doctoral student gained valuable insights into the effectiveness of various support instruments and different aspects of access to financing. The discussions also presented new proposals on how to promote sustainable lending and attract investment to Latvian businesses. The conference was attended by Latvian policymakers, entrepreneurs, banking sector representatives, as well as local and foreign investors. The conference topics are closely related to the doctoral student’s dissertation research and its overall thematic focus.
On 19 November 2025, Una Libkovska, professor at Ventspils University of Applied Sciences, and Monta Anšica, doctoral student, participated in the 4th International Scientific Conference “Challenges and Opportunities for Rural Development (CORD 2025)”, organised by the Institute of Economics and Finance of Warsaw University of Life Sciences (WULS-SGGW). Their participation took place within the framework of the State Research Programme project “Development of evidence-based solutions for the effective improvement of professional competence of adults and the assessment of the transfer of its results to practice in Latvia” (VPP-IZM-Education-2023/4-0001). At the conference, researchers presented a poster paper entitled “Building Investor Confidence Based on Management and Corporate Reputation in Rural Businesses in Latvia”. The conference was attended by researchers and industry experts from the European Union and other countries of the world, representing more than 15 countries in total, including Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Czech Republic, Bulgaria, Ukraine, Greece, Albania, India, Turkey, etc. Participants presented scientific reports covering a wide range of regional and rural development issues in the EU and beyond, including the development of the rural economy, the availability and development of human resources, the transformation of the labour market, the sustainable use of resources, the transformation of agricultural and food systems, social inclusion, innovation and digitalisation, as well as environmental and climate challenges. The conference program included a session of stand papers, during which participants analyzed existing theoretical approaches and empirical research methods, compared the experiences of different countries and regions and identified new areas of research. The discussions offered a multidimensional view of social, economic and environmental changes in rural and urban areas and their impact on regional development in the long term.
