A delegation from Kauno kolegija Higher Education Institution (HEI) visited the University of Venda, located in the Limpopo province of South Africa, from 26 May to 1 June. The visit aimed to strengthen academic ties, discuss opportunities for joint research projects and expand international cooperation between European and African higher education institutions.
The delegation was attended by Dr Aušra Šimonėlienė (Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Technologies), Karolina Matukynienė (Alytus Faculty) and Wilfred Ledoux Tchasse Simo (Faculty of Business). This visit is part of Kauno kolegija HEI’s consistent strategy to strengthen international ties and promote interdisciplinary partnerships.
From joint research to innovative solutions
One of the main highlights of the meeting was the discussion on a joint scientific project under the call of the European programme M-ERA.NET 2025. This initiative supports advanced research in the field of materials science and engineering, and both institutions discussed how they could contribute to the development of innovative solutions in an international context.
Also areas of cooperation in the fields of food technology and medicine were discussed. It is planned to develop the creation of health-friendly products – from functional drinks to dairy products – develop innovative packaging solutions, study bee products, such as mead and honey, and their impact on human health.
This partnership has the potential for mutual benefit: the University of Venda is strong in research on natural resources and plant-based products, and Kauno kolegija HEI is distinguished by its applied experience in developing consumer products and technological solutions. Such intercontinental cooperation allows combining competencies, contributing to the solution of global challenges – health, sustainability, food safety.
University of Venda – open to partnership and innovation
The University of Venda is a growing higher education institution, actively involved in solving regional and international problems. Great attention is paid to health sciences, sustainable use of natural resources and agribusiness development.
During the visit, representatives of Kauno kolegija HEI got acquainted with the university’s learning and research infrastructure: modern laboratories, practical training spaces and agribusiness pilot units. They conduct experiments with crop and livestock products, focused on applied research and commercial application.
Both parties agreed that cooperation in this area can significantly contribute to the progress of scientific research and the strengthening of students’ practical skills. Practical training opportunities, modern equipment and sustainability principles are topics in which the partnership takes on particularly great importance.
Focus on exchanges and cultural dialogue
During the visit, the possibilities of developing the Erasmus+ exchange programme were also discussed. The topics included students’ mobility, development of joint study modules, and renewal of the interinstitutional agreement. The University of Venda expressed its desire to be more actively involved in international academic initiatives.
In addition to the intensive work programme meetings, the delegation members had the opportunity to get to know South Africa’s culture, traditions of local communities, and natural heritage better. During the visit, they visited one of the country’s most famous natural attractions, the Kruger National Park, where they learned about the region’s unique biodiversity and environmental initiatives.
A partnership born from dialogue
The cooperation between Kauno kolegija HEI and the University of Venda marks an important step in expanding academic and scientific ties between the continents. The partnerships being created are based on mutual respect, knowledge exchange and the aim of creating long-term impact in both local and global contexts.
Joint initiatives between European and African higher education institutions are becoming increasingly relevant – they are a path not only to new research and innovation, but also to deeper intercultural cooperation based on shared responsibility for future decisions.
