International Expert Advisory Board Visits the Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies
On March 6 -7, the International Expert Advisory Board visited the Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies (LBTU) to learn about the university’s latest developments and provide insights on past achievements and future initiatives. The board comprises representatives from various European universities with extensive experience and qualifications who are keenly interested in LBTU’s development.
LBTU rector Irina Arhipova emphasized: "The opportunity to present LBTU’s scientific work and infrastructure to the International Expert Advisory Board is part of the effective implementation of our research program, which contributes to achieving the university’s strategic goals. Scientific activity is an integral part of LBTU’s operations, and the evaluation and recommendations from international experts help elevate our research ambitions while opening new opportunities at the international level. Every such exchange of experience is valuable, as it allows us to introduce international experts to Latvia’s experience, achievements, and future research directions."
As part of the visit, a panel discussion titled "Development Strategy and Possibilities of LBTU as a University of Sciences" was held. It focused on the progress of LBTU’s 2023–2027 development strategy implementation and provided recommendations on how the university can best present its achievements in the upcoming international evaluation of scientific institutes scheduled for this year.
Participants in the discussion included members of the International Expert Advisory Board, representatives of the LBTU Council, university administration and faculty members. The discussions explored ways to enhance LBTU’s competitiveness in the international arena, strengthen scientific capacity, and foster collaboration both within the university and with international partners.
Later in the day, the advisory board members engaged in discussions with faculty representatives on their development priorities and visited LBTU’s key scientific laboratories. During these visits, significant research achievements, development projects, and innovative solutions promoting science-industry collaboration were presented.
At the conclusion of the visit, experts summarized the discussions and provided key conclusions on LBTU’s development prospects, along with strategic recommendations for the university’s future growth. The experts highly appreciated LBTU’s progress in science and education and underscored the importance of continued international collaboration. Additionally, the board members learned about the history of Jelgava Palace, a significant cultural heritage site and LBTU’s central complex.
The International Expert Advisory Board is an independent body aimed at advising on LBTU’s research and development strategy. It enhances understanding of global research trends and provides guidance on attracting new partners for LBTU’s research projects and innovations.
The advisory board consists of 14 members from various countries, all highly qualified experts in their respective fields. Appointed for a three-year term, the current board includes experts from Lithuania, Germany, Finland, Estonia, Spain, Norway, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, Slovenia, Serbia, and Poland.
LBTU’s administration highly values the board’s expertise and looks forward to continued productive collaboration in strengthening the university’s development and international competitiveness.
