Interactive Webinar “Why worth you choose MBA programme “Customs Process Management” for your career?”

Vytautas Magnus University Agriculture Academy (VMU AA) starts new MBA study programme Customs Process Management.

Join special webinar and find out why this programme could be a choice for you and listen to the presentation “Customs Process Management”.

Date: 13 June 2023

Time: 4 p.m. (EEST)

Place: online, via MS Teams

Registration is required.

Internship in Portugal

The teachers of the Faculty of Bioeconomy Development Assoc. Dr. Erika Besusparienė, Assoc. Dr. Anastasija Novikova and the teacher of the Faculty of Agronomy Assoc. Dr. Judita Černiauskienė in 2023 May 15-19 participated in the courses at the Polytechnic University of Santarem, Portugal. The University offers various studies in the fields of agriculture, sports, management, technology and health sciences. The 12th international week on the topic “The impact of artificial intelligence on higher education” was organized at this university.

During the training, the teachers deepened their knowledge about the application possibilities of artificial intelligence technologies in education, teaching-learning processes, social sciences and the ethical challenges arising from the application of artificial intelligence technologies. The main topics covered the projects on practical application of artificial intelligence technologies, a lot of attention was paid to created ChatGPT model, its concept and practical application.

The participants of the course also had the opportunity to visit the Quita da Lagoalva farm, whose traditions and history continue since 1834. The Quita da Lagoalva farm stands out for its sustainable farming practices, technological processes for the production of olive oil and wine (tradition certified in 1888), and agro-tourism.

In the training, the teachers also had the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the Portuguese language and learn basic communication phrases.

The training participants also got to know the history of the city of Santarem and visited the municipality of Santarem.

The creators and teachers of the new MBA study program “Customs Process Management” at an international conference

On May 25-26, 2023, the creators of the new MBA study programme “Customs Process Management” (Enrika Naujokė, Monika Bielskienė, Milda Stravinskė, assoc. prof. Dr. Erika Besusparienė) and teachers (prof. dr. Vesa Niskanen, lect. Kristina Gesevičienė, Lect. .Anthony Buckley) participated in the 8th European Customs Practitioners‘ Conference, which took place in Vilnius. This year’s conference was attended by representatives of business and higher institutions from Lithuania and other countries – Germany, Greece, France, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Bulgaria, Israel, etc.

In the 8th European Customs Practitioners‘ Conference were discussed various topics related to trade preferences and agreements, supply chain challenges 24/7, legal maneuvers, customs IT systems and automation. A lot of attention was paid to customs in the context of sustainability, here the committee chairperson of the MBA study programme “Customs Process Management” assoc. prof. dr. Erika Besusparienė, together with Monika Bielskiene, who contributed to the creation of the MBA study program, moderated the session “Green cross-border trade – what should importers and exporters think of and prepare for?”. In this session, Arne Mielken (United Kingdom) provided insights in his presentation that processes are already underway and international trade is moving towards sustainability along with the European Green Deal. He thus provided various insights on the fight against goods that affect the environment through multilateral environmental agreements, the dissemination of experience, and building the status of a reliable trader – Green AEO. In this part, Anna Gayk (Germany) presented the EU platform Access2Markets, which allows you to get various information about third countries (tariffs, taxes, trade barriers, etc.). Meanwhile, Dr. Christian Struck (Germany) shared good practice in the case of Wacker Chemie AG, which implements sustainable production processes in the chemical and semiconductor industries, calculates and analyzes its carbon footprint, and currently implements technologies and aims to reduce CO2 emissions, and prepare for the introduced carbon border adjustment mechanism.

The afternoon of the second day was devoted to a workshop on the topic “Increasing competencies in the field of customs”. This workshop was organized by the Customs Knowledge Institute (CKI) community and its chair of CKI management council Kevin Shakespeare (United Kingdom). VDU is also a member of CKI. In an interactive workshop, the chair of CKI management council and the lecturer of the MBA study programme “Customs Process Management” Anthony Buckley presented insights on the structure of knowledge (promotion of training, sharing of knowledge, building of knowledge, updating of knowledge, awards for sharing of knowledge) and invited the conference participants to express their point of view on this issue. The committee chairperson of the MBA study programme “Customs Process Management” assoc. prof. dr. Erika Besusparienė presented the problematic situation to the conference participants – different persons work in the customs field (import/export managers; financial specialists); The EU customs competence framework includes many different competences; The EU Customs Vision 2040 foresees many new changes; in 2030 many jobs will increasingly use technology, and workers will need to maintain creativity. Conference participants identified the main challenges related to new regulations and changes in IT systems; identified key competencies to know customs and trade regulations, and to have interdisciplinary knowledge (customs+taxes+supply chains); and benefits such as an expanded professional network, new career prospects and higher compensation.

The 8th European Customs Practitioners‘ Conference was useful not only in raising the qualifications of teachers, but also once again confirmed the relevance and compliance of the newly created MBA study programme “Customs Process Management” with market needs.

MBA study program creators Enrika Naujokė, Milda Stravinskė, Monika Bielskienė

MBA study program teachers and creators (Vesa Niskanen, Kristina Gesevičienė, Erika Besusparienė, Enrika Naujokė)

Session “Green cross-border trade – what should importers and exporters think of and prepare for?” (Arne Mielken, Christian Struck, Erika Besusparienė)

Presentation of the MBA study programme “Customs Process Management” in the session “Let’s make connections!”

Closing moment of the conference

ERASMUS + teaching visit at Batumi State University

Prof. dr. Astrida Miceikienė from the Faculty of Bioeconomy Development at Vytautas Magnus University Agriculture Academy (VMU AA) participated in Erasmus teaching visit at Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University (BSU). During this visit, professor participated in the IV International Batumi week under the Erasmus+ program. The week is held within the framework of the academic and administrative staff exchange Erasmus+ program and aims to promote the internationalization of the university, popularize BSU, plan joint international programs and projects, and deepen cooperation. During 5 days, 9 professors from 5 European universities gave lectures to BSU students, and representatives of foreign partner international offices will conducted training on issues of effective management of exchange programs.

The academic and administrative staff of Vytautas Magnus University (Lithuania), Mikolas Romeris University (Lithuania), Daugavpils University (Latvia), Wroclaw University (Poland), Coimbra Polytechnic Institute (Portugal) have been participating in the IV International Batumi Week.

The event served as a remarkable platform for students, academics, and professionals from across the globe to come together, celebrate cultural diversity, and foster international collaboration. With an array of engaging activities, interactive workshops, and enlightening presentations, Batumi State University successfully promoted cross-cultural understanding and provided participants with an enriching experience. The event aimed to create an inclusive and welcoming environment where participants could exchange ideas, learn from each other, and build meaningful connections that transcend geographical boundaries.

The International Batumi Week featured a series of engaging workshops and seminars on a wide range of topics, spanning from global economics to sustainable development, intercultural communication to technological advancements. Prof. dr. A. Miceikienė gave lectures on the topic “Environmental taxation”, and presented Vytautas Magnus University and VMU Agriculture Academy, study programs and mobility of Erasmus+ possibilities in VMU Agriculture Academy.

The 4th International Batumi Week also served as a platform for students to explore opportunities for academic exchanges and collaborative projects. Representatives from partner universities shared information about study programs, research initiatives, and internship opportunities, encouraging students to embrace international experiences. This emphasis on global engagement will undoubtedly contribute to the development of well-rounded, culturally sensitive individuals ready to tackle the challenges of a globalized world.

Networking opportunities were plentiful throughout the event, with participants having the chance to connect with professionals from various industries. The International Batumi Week facilitated meaningful conversations, allowing attendees to establish valuable contacts, share ideas, and explore potential career paths in an international context. The event undoubtedly played a vital role in broadening horizons and opening doors to exciting global opportunities for both students and professionals.

International scientific conference „Research & Innovation, Educations ant Best Practice for Bioeconomy Development“

On June 5 at Vytautas Magnus University Agriculture Academy (VMU AA) invites to participate at the international scientific conference „Research & Innovation, Educations ant Best Practice for Bioeconomy Development“.

Place: June 5 (Monday)
Time: 09.30-13:45
Place: VMU Agriculture Academy IV building (Universiteto str. 8A, Akademija, Kaunas district)

Landscape design afternoon at VMU AA: meeting with the president of IFLA and opening of the exhibition

Vytautas Magnus University Academy of Agriculture (VMU AA) invites to the “Landscape Design Afternoon” on June 5. During the event, the exhibition of the European region of the International Union of Landscape Architects (IFLA) “Rethinking Nature” will be opened, VMU AA Landscape Design studies will be presented, the afternoon participants will have the opportunity to hear IFLA President Bruno Marques’ presentation “IFLA is all of us: why we need a unified landscape architect profession ?”.

International Union of Landscape Architects (IFLA) European Regional Exhibition “Rethinking Nature”

The exhibition presents large and small-scale landscape architecture projects from 20 countries (including Lithuania), which are in harmony with nature and use nature-based solutions. The exhibition will be open until June 30, 2023.

IFLA is all of us: why we need a unified landscape architecture profession

Although the world has changed a lot since its inception, the International Union of Landscape Architects (IFLA) and landscape architects around the world are fighting the same battles. We are a 21st century profession and well equipped to deal with the pressures that will shape new lifestyles and creativity for generations to come. This talk will review the state of the profession and present the essential role landscape architects play in advancing the profession by demanding the highest standards of education, training, research and professional practice. Together, we will continue to raise awareness of landscape architecture around the world and promote the sustainable management and design of our natural and built environments.

Jacqueline McIntosh and Bruno Marques at Zealandia

REGISTRATION FOR THE EVENT

Event date: June 5. (Monday)

Event time: 1:00 p.m.

Place of the event: VMU AA Central palace 505 aud. (Studentų str. 11, Akademija, Kaunas district)

More information:

Lekt. Mantas Pilkauskas

mantas.pilkauskas@vdu.lt,

+370 615 78995

The Erasmus+ project “Medical beekeeping – for beekeepers”

Bees provide a crucial ecological service by pollinating plants, which is essential for plant life. Beekeepers use these insects to harvest honey, pollen, bee pitch, royal jelly, wax, bee venom, and other useful and helpful elements for health. These products, however, must be produced in a secure and proper way.

The Erasmus+ project “Medical beekeeping – for beekeepers” (MEDI-BEEB) addresses these issues. Adnan Menderes University (Turkey) is the project coordinator, project partners include the Confederation of Italian Farmers of Umbria, Onsekiz Mart University of Cenakale, Wroclaw University of Environment and Life Sciences, Aydin Province Beekeepers’ Association, and Vytautas Magnus University (VMU). The third meeting of the project “Medical beekeeping for beekeepers” took place on May 16-17 at the Wroclaw University of Environment and Life Sciences (Poland). Prof. dr. Virginija Dulskienė and assoc. prof. dr. Anželika Dautartė of the Department of Environment and Ecology at the Faculty of Forest Sciences and Ecology at VMU Agriculture Academy participated in the meeting. The training materials being prepared in a virtual environment, where video topics of best practice examples are discussed to diversify, develop and increase the value of the production produced by beekeepers and its application for apitherapy purposes. Soon this information will also be available on the project website and mobile app. The final meeting of the project will be held on November 8-9 at Vytautas Magnus University.

More information about the project can be found at the project website: https://www.medibeeb.eu/

SKF company representative visited VMU Agriculture Academy

SKF (Luton, UK) company Operation manager and Visual management expert Colin Chapman 24-28 April 2023 visited Faculty of Engineering at Vytautas Magnus University Agriculture Academy (VMU AA). SKF is worldwide know company (distributors can also be find in Lithuania). SKF opened its first UK sales office in London during 1910 and the following year bearing production commenced in Luton, at its first manufacturing facility outside of Sweden. Today, SKF Limited has 13 locations throughout the UK, including ten manufacturing facilities (four rolling bearings and six machined seals), with approximately 1,250 employees. One of SKF office is located in Lithuania as well.

SKF was listed as one of the world’s most sustainable companies by both the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index (DJSI) and the Dow Jones Sustainability Index for Europe. SKF has achieved a Platinum Medal from EcoVadis, one of the world’s most trusted providers of sustainable ratings for use in supply chains on 15th December 2022 (Gothenburg). This is the third year SKF has been awarded the Platinum medal and now ranks in the top 1 percent of all companies assessed by EcoVadis. In addition, SKF has received an A- Climate Change rating from the CDP, the global non-profit that runs the world’s largest climate and environmental disclosure system for companies, cities, states and regions.

University students have got acquainted with the principles of development of engineering management and types of engineering management in a world-class company. Students were introduced to CDP Climate Change and 5S visual management score that provides a snapshot of a company’s disclosure and environmental performance. The scoring methodology provides a comparable dataset across the market. Visual management technique enables production operatives to identify “abnormal vs normal” in the workplace using the “at a glance concept”. This in the fast pace of manufacturing saves time and reduces waste which in turn make the facility more profitable (delivering a quality product to the customer on time and in good quality. The sort stage of 5s sorts necessary from unnecessary (basically sorting through items of little to no value to items of value and need) clears the work place of clutter and only relevant and needed items remain.

5s is now part of the culture at SKF Luton which was first developed by the car manufacturer Toyota.

To earn leadership recognition, companies must show environmental leadership, disclosing action on climate change. Setting new standards and creating partnerships to contribute to the development of clean technology solutions, improvements in energy efficiency, and the needed reduction of CO₂ emissions across industries. SKF solutions play a key role in reducing CO₂ emissions across a range of industrial applications. SKF also committed to decarbonizing them entire production by 2030 and having net-zero greenhouse gas emissions in our full value chain by 2050.

The third meeting of the project “Medicinal beekeeping – for beekeepers” [MEDI-BEEB] in Wroclaw

The Erasmus+ project “Medical beekeeping – for beekeepers” (MEDI-BEEB) addresses these issues. Adnan Menderes University (Turkey) is the project coordinator; project partners include the Confederation of Italian Farmers of Umbria, Onsekiz Mart University of Cenakale, Wroclaw University of Environment and Life Sciences, Aydin Province Beekeepers’ Association, and Vytautas Magnus University. The third meeting of the project “Medical beekeeping for beekeepers” took place on May 16-17 at the Wroclaw University of Environment and Life Sciences (Poland). Prof. dr. Virginija Dulskienė and assoc. prof. dr. Anželika Dautartė of the Department of Environment and Ecology participated in the meeting. The training materials being prepared in a virtual environment, video topics of best practice examples are discussed here, to diversify, develop and increase the value of the production produced by beekeepers and its application for apitherapy purposes. Soon this information will also be available on the project website and mobile app. The final meeting of the project will be held on November 8-9 at our university.

More information about the project can be found at https://www.medibeeb.eu/