Erasmus+ OFINU:Central Asian Universities Gain Insights on Open University Development from Latvia Visit

Within the framework of the EU Erasmus+ Programme funded project OFINU – Open Food innovation University, the study visit of representatives of Tajikistan’s and Uzbekistan’s partner universities to Latvia was organised from June 28 to July 5, 2024. In addition to the five Central Asia universities staff, representatives of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation of Uzbekistan, the Ministry of Agriculture of Uzbekistan and Slovak University of Agriculture took part in the visit.

On 29 June the group attended the food processing enterprise “Kelmeni”, where got acquainted with the grain processing and bread production processes. It is noteworthy that the company covers the entire process from grain cultivation to storage, processing flour, preparation of various bakery products and delivery throughout the country. All these technological processes are organized in modern, innovative ways. The same day the group met with managers of the beverage company “Milmani”, who completed studies at the open university. Businessmen highlighted process, challenges and benefits to be considered by universities ongoing open university development process.

On July 1 the delegation visited the Latvia Ministry of Education and Science.  The essence of the concept of the Open University, the issues of establishing a system of higher and professional and continuous education were discussed. The same day the Latvian Employers’ Confederation shared experience of opportunities for the open university format education to increase the human resources potential for the benefit of Latvia’s industry.

Training of the participants on an open university development and management issues was organised in three following days at the Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies (LBTU) and Riga Technical University (RTU). At both universities the group was introduced also to the universities and their activities. At the LBTU, the group visited the Faculty of Food Technology and got acquainted with the production and packaging processes of food: bread products, various natural juices, milk and meat products. Well-equipped laboratory facilities create great opportunities to attract those who wish to study in an open university. Experience of the Faculty of Food Technology is important resource for all Central Asia partners. At the RTU participants were introduced to laboratories in diverse fields of science, practice facilities, student dormitory on the beautiful campus. The OFINU management meeting was held at the end of the study visit.

From the study visit to Latvia we have learned rich, practice-based experience of partner universities on the open university development and management, as well approaches on good combination of open university format with continuous education. In an existing system, not only universities, but also education centres and professional educational institutions are working in a strong competitive environment.

Representatives of the Uzbekistan’s ministries, taking part in the study visit, got evidence on value and impact of the open university on quality and relevance of education to the needs of economy sectors. The visit is an important step in development and adoption of the open university study format in the field of food innovation in five Central

More information about the project should be found: https://ofinu.eu/