Researchers from KSU and the University of Agder discussed the prospects for international cooperation

During the meeting, the parties discussed prospects for the development of international partnership, the implementation of joint scientific and educational initiatives, academic mobility, and the preparation of international projects. On behalf of Kherson State University, the meeting was attended by the Vice-Rector for International, Educational-Methodological, and Scientific-Pedagogical Work Alla Tsapiv, the Dean of the Faculty of Pedagogy, Psychology, and Social Work Nataliia Voropai, the Head of the Pedagogical Department, Head of the Department of Preschool and Primary Education, Professor Liubov Petukhova, representatives of the International Relations Department, as well as a team of lecturers from the Faculty of Pedagogy, Psychology, and Social Work. From the Norwegian side, the discussion included the Dean of the Department of Pedagogical Education at the University of Agder Gunn Bjørnsen and the Advisor to the Department of Pedagogical Education, Coordinator of Educational Programs Viktoriia Romashchenko.

Within the framework of the meeting, the Assistant Dean for International Relations Anastasiia Volianiuk presented to Norwegian colleagues the activities and potential of the Faculty of Pedagogy, Psychology, and Social Work of KSU. Particular attention was paid to the experience of organizing and ensuring the continuity of the educational process in wartime, the development of distance and blended learning, the implementation of innovative digital tools and artificial intelligence in education, as well as directions for psychosocial support for children and youth in crisis conditions. Colleagues from the University of Agder expressed support for the KSU staff and confirmed their interest in developing a long-term academic partnership. During the meeting, the parties identified a number of promising directions for further interaction. In particular, there was discussion of cooperation in the field of training future teachers and the development of inclusive practices, and the exchange of experience regarding modern and innovative didactics.

Special attention was paid to the opportunities for developing academic mobility and student exchange through the organization of short-term visits and internships, conducting guest lectures, workshops, joint educational events, and language tandem clubs. Participants also discussed the prospects for joint project activities. KSU representatives shared ideas regarding the initiation of new international initiatives and the preparation of joint projects. For her part, the Dean of the Department of Pedagogical Education at the University of Agder Gunn Bjørnsen proposed considering relevant grant competitions and funding programs that could serve as a basis for further cooperation between the universities.

The meeting was an important step in the development of partnership relations between Kherson State University and the University of Agder and opened new opportunities for the implementation of joint educational, scientific, and international projects.