International scientific seminar Biomass for Energy

The International Scientific Seminar
BIOMASS FOR ENERGY

The International Scientific Seminar BIOMASS FOR ENERGY

The International Scientific Seminar
BIOMASS FOR ENERGY
29 July, 2025

SafeHabitus Summer School 2025

The SafeHabitus project hosted the 3rd SafeHabitus Summer School on 25 – 27 June 2025, Kraków, Poland. This three-day event served as a collaborative platform for all SafeHabitus project partners and Communities of Practice to foster the exchange innovative ideas, and to learn from each other and other international stakeholders. A significant highlight of this year’s edition was the SafeHabitus and International Social Security Association (ISSA) Joint Colloquium on “The Prevention’s Role in Advancing Social Sustainability in Agriculture”. Assoc. prof. dr. Anastasija Novikova and assoc. prof. dr. Laura Girdziute participated in this event and made a presentation on Farming profiles in Europe, revealing the Challenges and Insights from CoP Countries.

This two-day colloquium gathered international stakeholders, including occupational safety and health (OSH) experts, researchers, and national institutions. These dialogues explored comprehensive preventive strategies vital for the occupational, economic, and social well-being in farming, with a strong emphasis on critical aspects of physical and mental health support for farmers and farm workers.

Furthermore, the Summer School hosted the Transnational Communities of Practice (CoP) meeting. The 11 SafeHabitus CoPs engaged in collaborative workshops, identifying and mapping good practices crucial to the project’s core objectives: physical and mental health, machinery safety, livestock farm safety, and the common well-being of all farmers and farm workers. The outcomes of the workshops will directly inform the development of a research tool supporting the development of good practices in farm safety and health across the sector.

Media contact: National CoP representative Anastasija Novikova (Lithuania), anastasija.novikova@vdu.lt

More information:

About the Joint Colloqium:
The event is organised by the International Section of the ISSA on Prevention in Agriculture, in cooperation with SafeHabitus, Agricultural University in Krakow, Poland, Kasa Rolniczego Ubezpieczenia Społecznego (KRUS), Państwowa Inspekcja Pracy (PIP), and the Central Institute for Labour Protection – National Research Institute (CIOP-PIB).

About SafeHabitus:
SafeHabitus project is a four-year project coordinated by TEAGASC Ireland, funded by the European Union as part of the Horizon Europe Programme, grant agreement number 101084270. This multi-actor project aims to strengthen Farm Health and Safety Knowledge Innovation Systems (FHS KIS) and support the EU transition to social sustainability in farming.

Empowering Young Entrepreneurs: Erasmus+ BIP “Management for Business Startups” at VMU Agriculture Academy

Vytautas Magnus University Agriculture Academy (VMU AA) in Kaunas, Lithuania, recently hosted a dynamic and multicultural Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) titled “Management for Business Startups – 2025 Summer Course.” Taking place from June 2 to 13, 2025, the programme was designed to provide both bachelor’s and master’s students with essential entrepreneurial skills and tools to develop, plan, and present their own business ideas. The blended format combined online instruction with on-site mobility in Lithuania, enabling students to engage across borders while gaining practical insights into startup creation and business modelling. Awarding 3 ECTS credits, the course brought together a vibrant group of participants from Estonia, Greece, Germany, India, Kazakhstan, Mauritius, Poland, Romania, Sierra Leone, Slovenia, and Ukraine, creating a truly global learning environment. This BIP course emphasized experiential learning, intercultural exchange, and collaborative project work, making it a valuable platform for fostering entrepreneurial thinking within a European and international framework.

Blended Format: Virtual Knowledge Meets Real-World Practice

The course followed a thoughtfully structured approach. During the first week, participants joined virtual sessions exploring the use of robotic process automation (RPA) in business, designing software automation scenarios, and tackling themes such as sustainable production, marketing strategy, and business development frameworks. These sessions laid the groundwork for the hands-on collaboration and final project preparation that followed.

Academic Engagement in an International Environment

The second week unfolded on-site in Kaunas, where students gathered for in-person workshops focused on business modeling, financial planning, budgeting, and marketing tactics. Each day introduced new elements vital to startup success. The academic sessions were led by an accomplished international teaching team, including Prof. Dr. Jan Žukovskis (VMU), Prof. Dr. Gunta Grīnberga-Zālīte (Latvia), Prof. Dr. Paula Pyplacz (Poland), Assoc. Prof. Dr. Janusz Sasak (Poland), and Mgr. Tuuli Kaasik (Estonia). Prof. Dorota Chudy-Hyski from the University of Silesia in Katowice and Karolina Hyski from the University of Economics in Katowice participated in the project evaluation process, providing professional feedback and contributing to the academic integrity and practical relevance of the student startup ideas. Alongside the educational programme, students toured Kaunas Old Town, visited Vilnius, and enjoyed excursions through VMU’s picturesque Agriculture Academy campus. Evening activities and informal gatherings deepened connections between participants and added cultural richness to the academic experience.

A Diverse and Multidisciplinary Cohort

The programme brought together thirty-six students from eleven countries and sixteen partner universities. Participants represented a wide spectrum of academic disciplines including agriculture, environmental science, economics, marketing, logistics, and digital business. Their international and interdisciplinary collaboration led to a vibrant and idea-rich learning environment where new business concepts were born and developed.

Pitching Startup Ideas with Confidence

Throughout the week, students worked in teams to refine business ideas, build budget plans, and prepare pitches. The final day featured formal presentations before a panel of lecturers and peers simulating investor discussions. These sessions not only tested participants’ ability to communicate and justify their concepts, but also celebrated their innovation, teamwork, and leadership skills. Each student was awarded a certificate recognizing their academic and collaborative achievements.

Reflections from Participants

Feedback gathered after the programme revealed a high level of satisfaction. Nearly all participants rated the course as excellent or very good. They especially appreciated the interactive format, the practical orientation of the course content, and the supportive international atmosphere. Students distinguished the academic quality of the lectures, the professionalism of the faculty, and the chance to apply theory in real-world-inspired settings. Suggestions included adding even more time for face-to-face learning and expanding future sessions to include advanced startup simulations.

Looking Ahead: A Model of Entrepreneurial Education

The 2025 Management for Business Startups BIP stands as a testament to VMU Agriculture Academy’s commitment to advancing entrepreneurship education through international cooperation and innovative teaching methods. It equipped students with essential business competencies, boosted their confidence, and built lasting cross-border connections that will carry into future professional ventures.

Erasmus BIP partner universities: Akhmet Baitursynuly Kostanay Regional University , Almaty Management University, Czestochowa University of Technology, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies, Military University of Technology, Reutlingen University, University of Maribor, University of Mauritius, University of Oradea, University of Siedlce, University of Silesia in Katowice, Warsaw University of Life Sciences.

Prepared by dr. Monika Medikienė (International Coordinator of VMU AA) and prof. dr. Jan Žukovskis (Faculty of Bioeconomy Development).

Co-Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.

Natural Meadow Restoration Initiative at the Arboretum of VMU Agriculture Academy: Living Lab Contribution to Nature-Based Solutions

On June 27, 2025, a natural meadow restoration initiative was implemented at the Arboretum of Vytautas Magnus University Agriculture Academy. The aim of this initiative was to promote biodiversity and integrate nature-based solutions (NBS) into education and environmental practice.

As part of the activity, Arboretum staff prepared an experimental plot for natural meadow establishment: the existing vegetation was mowed, biomass removed, and soil scarification carried out to create suitable conditions for new plant establishment. A meadow restoration expert developed a native seed mix tailored to local conditions, distinguished by high species diversity and ecological value. The seeds were sown in designated plots within the Arboretum territory.

The activity involved the VMU Agriculture Academy Living Lab team and students from the Faculty of Forest Sciences and Ecology. It provided a unique opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience in natural meadow restoration, learn about the role of native plant species in ecosystem stability, and explore the application of nature-based solutions in modern agriculture.

The restored meadows will serve as a demonstration site for the Living Lab, used in study programs, educational activities, community cooperation, and international exchanges. These natural spaces will contribute to the development of environmental competences and the integration of NBS principles into higher education.

This initiative was implemented within the framework of the international project “Education and Nature-Based Solutions: enable society to bend the curve for biodiversity” (ENABLS). The project aims to strengthen the role of education in biodiversity conservation through local initiatives, experiential learning, and collaboration between science and society.

Moments from the VMU Agriculture Academy Graduation Ceremony (photo gallery)

On June 19, a special chapter was written in the life book of graduates from Vytautas Magnus University Agriculture Academy – on this day, diplomas were awarded to the young creators of a sustainable future, conferring Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.

Access to the photo galleries is granted only to users with a VMU email address.

The Second Erasmus+ “Bumble-NAP” Project Meeting in Italy

On June 26–27, 2025, the second international meeting of the Erasmus+ project “Bumblebees for Natural Pollination” (BUMBLE-NAP, No. 2024-1-TR01-KA220-VET-000254015) was held in Perugia, Italy. The meeting brought together representatives from Turkey, Italy, Bulgaria, and Lithuania. Vytautas Magnus University was represented by the team from the Department of Environmental Sciences and Ecology at the Agriculture Academy.

As part of the project’s activities, the aim is to promote the use of bumblebees in greenhouse farming as a natural alternative for pollination, reducing the use of chemical substances and hormones in agriculture. The project is coordinated by the Municipality of Serik in Antalya (Turkey), with partners including Aydin Adnan Menderes University (Turkey), the Farmers’ Confederation of the Umbria Region (Italy), the Institute of Agriculture of Stara Zagora (Bulgaria), and Vytautas Magnus University (Department of Environmental Sciences and Ecology, Agriculture Academy, Lithuania). The project runs for two years, with completion scheduled for November 30, 2026.

The main objective of the project is not only to support environmentally friendly pollinators like bumblebees in greenhouse agriculture but also to strengthen the vocational education and training (VET) system in the agricultural sector by developing practical learning tools and methodological materials.

On the first day of the meeting, held at the CIA Umbria office in Perugia, partners presented project coordination and management progress and discussed national research results from Turkey, Bulgaria, Italy, and Lithuania. The VMU Agriculture Academy team shared the outcomes of the Lithuanian study, highlighting both strengths and areas for improvement in the practical use of bumblebees in agriculture.

Additionally, the development of an e-learning platform and the structure of upcoming interactive training modules were presented. Partners discussed future dissemination tools, including educational videos, a methodological handbook, and a practical training course aimed at greenhouse workers and VET institutions. The meeting concluded with a discussion on financial and management issues, as well as planning for the third partner meeting.

The second day was dedicated to an educational visit to the Augusto Ciuffelli Agricultural College – the oldest agricultural education institution in Italy, operating since 1864. The college is located in Todi, within the historic 12th-century Montecristo Monastery complex, and is recognized for its strong infrastructure for practical training.

Partners visited modern hydroponic cultivation systems – highly relevant to the topic of greenhouse pollination – and explored the college’s educational farm, which includes olive groves, vineyards, and precision agriculture experiments.

A highlight of the visit was the ceroplastic collection of wax fruit models, reflecting ancient fruit varieties. These meticulously crafted models are used for educational purposes and help foster understanding of regional plant diversity and its conservation.

Participation in this meeting strengthened international collaboration, encouraged the exchange of knowledge on bumblebees as a sustainable pollination method, and supported further development of the project’s educational tools. The contribution of the VMU Agriculture Academy team to research analysis and learning content development is a vital part of the project’s overall progress.

Strengthening the Partnership between VMU Agriculture Academy, Estonian University of Life Sciences, and Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies – Shared Visions for the Future

A delegation of leaders from the Vytautas Magnus University (VMU) Agriculture Academy, led by Chancellor Prof. Dr. Astrida Miceikienė, along with Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Aušra Blinstrubienė, Head of the Administrative Group Dr. Laima Skauronė, Dean of the Faculty of Agronomy Assoc. Prof. Dr. Aida Adamavičienė, Dean of the Faculty of Bioeconomy Development Prof. Dr. Bernardas Vaznonis, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering Assoc. Prof. Dr. Rolandas Domeika, and Dean of the Faculty of Forest Sciences and Ecology Prof. Dr. Vitas Marozas, visited two strategic partner universities in June – the Estonian University of Life Sciences (EMÜ) in Tartu and the Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies (LBTU) in Jelgava.

The aim of this visit was to strengthen the partnership between the three Baltic life sciences institutions by discussing the expansion of joint projects, enhancing the international dimension of studies, developing academic and student exchange programs, and participating in international academic initiatives. Throughout the visit, intensive discussions were held on double degree opportunities, collaborative research initiatives, and inter-institutional cooperation.

At the Estonian University of Life Sciences, particular attention was given to science policy and strengthening project-based activities. The open, professional, and warm communication with EMÜ representatives not only encouraged new ideas but also reaffirmed the importance of shared values in shaping long-term collaboration. Meanwhile, the Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies left a strong impression with its state-of-the-art research infrastructure – ranging from plant protection and forestry to alternative fuels and interdisciplinary science laboratories. During the visit, significant personal contacts were established with LBTU researchers and administrators, and further cooperation within the BOVA network, blended intensive programs (BIP), and academic conferences was discussed.

The VMU Agriculture Academy sincerely thanks Rector Ülle Jaakma of EMÜ and Rector Irina Arhipova of LBTU and their teams for their warm hospitality, professional dialogue, and genuine openness to collaboration. This visit further strengthened the commitment of all three institutions to shaping a sustainable and innovative future in the field of life sciences across the Baltic region.

During the visit, the delegation also had the opportunity to explore the historic Old Town of Tallinn, while free time in Tartu and Jelgava offered a chance to experience the unique cultural and historical atmosphere of both cities.

The VMU Agriculture Academy is pleased with this new stage of strengthened cooperation and eagerly awaits the arrival of its international colleagues in Lithuania for the international conference “Rural Development 2025,” which will take place on October 1–3 at the VMU Agriculture Academy. More information about the conference is available at https://ruraldevelopment.lt

For more information about our partner universities:
Estonian University of Life Sciences – https://www.emu.ee/en
Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies – https://www.lbtu.lv

International Workshop: measurement of N2O/H2O and CH4/CO2/H2O gases in soil

International Workshop: measurement of N₂O/H₂O and CH₄/CO₂/H₂O gases in soil

The Bioeconomy Research Centre of Excellence of the Bioeconomy Research Institute (BTI) of the Vytautas Magnus University, Agriculture Academy, invites lecturers, researchers, PhD students and graduate and post-doctoral students and other interested to take part in a international workshop on the Measurement of N₂O/H₂O and CH₄/CO₂/H₂O in Soil.

During the workshop, a product application specialist from LI-COR Environmental — the manufacturer of the instruments — based at LI-COR’s German office, will share their expertise on measuring soil gases under natural field conditions.

In addition to theoretical insights, participants will have the opportunity to practice measurements in the field and learn essential information on measurement accuracy, data interpretation, and practical applications.

Date: 3 July 2025, 09:00-16:00 (Theoretical and practical parts)

Venue: Experimental Station of VMU Agriculture Academy (Rapsų g. 7, Noreikiškės, Kaunas district)

Duration: 6 hours.

REGISTRATION

Organisers: BioTEC, Vildoma, LI-COR, VMU Agriculture Academy, Agronomy Faculty, Agroecosystems and Soil Sciences Department, Bioeconomy Research Institute, Experimental Station.

This workshop is one of the activities of the project ‘Development of the Bioeconomy Research Centre of Excellence (BioTEC)’. The project is funded by the Ministry of Education, Science and Sports of the Republic of Lithuania, and the Research Council of Lithuania Contract No S-A-UEI-23-14. The funding programme is the ‘Universities` Excellence Initiative’ (No V-940).

Master’s Studies in English – Made in Lithuania

Have you completed your Bachelor’s degree in Lithuania? Take the next step with a Master’s programme in English at Vytautas Magnus University Agriculture Academy.

Available programmes:

Study in Kaunas at a high-ranking university and gain a future-oriented qualification in a globally relevant field.

Start: Autumn 2025.
Apply now: https://vytautasmagnus.dreamapply.com.

More information about admission: Admission to Degree Studies | VDU.