Erasmus Teaching Visit in Bulgaria
Associated professors dr. Erika Besusparienė and dr. Anastasija Novikova from the Faculty of Bioeconomic Development at Vytautas Magnus University Agriculture Academy (VMU AA) successfully completed a teaching visit in Bulgaria at the D.A. Tsenov Academy of Economics, located in Svishtov on the right bank of the Danube River from October 2 to 6, 2023. During this visit, they had the opportunity to collaborate with local colleagues, participate in lectures, and share their knowledge on the importance of bioeconomic development and international trade tax policy.
Assoc. prof. dr. A. Novikova had lectures in the Department of Agricultural Economics, actively sharing her expertise on the significance of bioeconomic development. Her lectures were not only for students but also for teachers of department. She discussed how the bioeconomy sector is becoming increasingly vital and its potential contribution to sustainable economic development. Assoc. prof. dr. A. Novikova engaged with students in discussions on ways to enhance Bulgaria’s agriculture sector for greater economic efficiency and environmental sustainability.
Assoc. prof. dr. E. Besusparienė, who lectured in the Department of Control and Analysis of Economic Activities, focused on international trade tax policy. Her lectures were tailored to help students understand how tax policies impact international trade. She provided a comprehensive overview of different tax measures and their application in international trade. Furthermore, she discussed current issues and recent changes in international trade tax policies, ensuring that students could easily grasp and absorb the information.
Both associated professors also had the opportunity to explore the Customs laboratory class at D.A. Tsenov Academy of Economics, where special software allows students to submit customs declarations in real-time and simulate real-world business scenarios. This practical experience was invaluable for students, offering them insights into customs procedures.
Additionally, during this teaching visit, detailed discussions took place regarding further collaboration opportunities between institutions that can benefit students, faculty, and researchers from both universities. These discussions laid the foundation for strengthening ties between the two academic institutions.
One of the significant opportunities discussed is student exchanges through the Erasmus program. This presents an excellent opportunity for students from VMU AA Faculty of Bioeconomic Development, particularly those studying Accounting and Finance, Agricultural Economics, or Customs Process Management. These exchanges enable students to experience a different country’s higher education system, gain exposure to different cultures, and acquire valuable international perspectives.
Faculty members can also take advantage of this Erasmus collaboration opportunity. They can exchange knowledge, experience, and teaching methods, contributing to the quality of higher education and fostering international academic cooperation. This allows professors to offer new perspectives and knowledge to their students.
The collaboration can also expand research opportunities for researchers and academics to participate in international projects, conduct scientific research, and contribute to the growth of the international scientific community.
This teaching visit to Bulgaria has opened a remarkable opportunity to strengthen relationships and develop cooperation between the two institutions. It promises to benefit students, faculty, and researchers from both universities. It serves as an excellent example of how international collaboration can promote education and scientific development, helping shape the future vision of higher education.
