On June 13-18, 2022, VIVES University of Applied Sciences (Belgium) hosted the International Staff Week, which was attended by more than 20 representatives of partner universities from eight countries including Ukraine, Bhutan, Cambodia, Chile, Rwanda, South Africa, the Philippines and Uganda. Drohobych Ivan Franko State Pedagogical University was represented by Rector Professor Valentyna Bodak and Vice-Rector for International Cooperation Associate Professor Ihor Hrynyk. During the week, all partners presented their respective institutions, got acquainted with the specialties and curricula at partner universities, discussed opportunities and prospects for international cooperation. The participants of the event were shown around the facilities of VIVES University, its library, specialized laboratories, offices etc. Several meetings with the administration of the Belgian university and faculty representatives held throughout the week focused on the issues of further cooperation, summary of the results of joint work and implementation of new partner projects.

The delegation met with the Rector of VIVES University, Honorary Doctor of Drohobych University Joris Hindryckx who truly appreciated the long-term partnership of both universities expressing hope for its continuation. The areas of international cooperation were also discussed with the Vice-Rectors Patricia Waerniers and Tine Ternest and coordinators from all faculties of VIVES University. The Belgian colleagues talked about the activities of secondary schools, social services and institutions that support and provide assistance to vulnerable groups, including the Ukrainians who were forced to leave their homeland due to military aggression.

The meeting with the president of the non-profit organization Oradea, Honorary Doctor of Drohobych University Patrick Bellink, project manager Ivan Van Hulle and international coordinators of VIVES University Sharon Schillewaert, Sabin Poleyn and Lien Van Eecke was fruitful and productive. A pleasant surprise was the participation of the head of the Erasmus+ National Office Svitlana Shitikova, who gave recommendations regarding implementation of international projects. Especially warm and touching was the get-together with the eleven Drohobych university students, who continue their semester studies at different faculties of VIVES University under the Erasmus + academic mobility program.

And finally, the monuments of Belgian architecture and culture made an unforgettable impression on all participants.

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By vmp