ERASMUS+ · INTENSIVE MIXED PROGRAMS
Our students participated in two international programs in Latvia.
Students from Sivas Cumhuriyet University gained international learning experience in the fields of social work, scientific research, and digital collaboration in two separate programs hosted by the Liepāja Academy of Riga Technical University.
Social service program
9 students
September 7–11, 2026 · In-person events
Scientific research program
11 students
September 28–October 2, 2026 · In-person events
Academic scope
3 ECTS
For each program · Liepāja, Latvia
Sivas Cumhuriyet University, in Latvia Riga Technical University, Liepāja Academy Our university participated in two separate Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Programmes (BIPs) hosted by [House Name]. One of these programs, in which our university is a partner, focuses on developing social work competencies. 9, and the program focuses on scientific research and digital collaboration. 11 of our students participated.
The programs, held in September and October, offered our students the opportunity to meet participants from different countries in an international learning environment, enhance their academic knowledge and skills, and gain intercultural experience. Each program, structured as a 3 ECTS credit course, included academic sessions, practical workshops, and collaborative work.
SOCIAL SERVICES AND DIGITAL SECURITY
Social Work Competencies for Preventing Cyber and Sexual Violence
Strengthening Social Work Competences in Preventing Cyber and Sexual Violence
The in-person portion of the program titled “Strengthening Social Work Competencies in Preventing Cyber and Sexual Violence,” in which 9 students from our university participated, was held in Liepāja, Latvia, from September 7–11, 2026. The program was supported by online sessions on September 3 and 24, 2026.
The program, which focused on preventing cyber and sexual violence in the digital society and developing effective intervention approaches against these types of violence, addressed the impact of violence on victims, risk assessment, security planning, and protection in the digital environment. Approaches that consider the effects of trauma and place the victim's needs at the center were among the program's core areas of work.
The content, supported by lectures, workshops, case studies, role-playing, and group projects, was designed to allow participants to connect theoretical knowledge with practical examples. Studies on online security, privacy, digital evidence, and protective practices aimed to enhance students' digital competencies and professional awareness.
The program also facilitated the sharing of social work approaches from different countries and fostered interdisciplinary collaboration. Participants had the opportunity to develop preventive initiatives and approach societal problems from an international perspective.
SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH AND DIGITAL COLLABORATION
Joint Research, Joint Progress
Common Research, Common Progress: Scientific Networking in Europe in Digital Environment
The second program, in which 11 students from our university participated, was organized under the title "Joint Research, Joint Progress: Building Scientific Networks in Europe in the Digital Environment". The face-to-face events of the program were held at the Liepāja Academy of the Technical University of Riga between September 28 and October 2, 2026.
The program, which focused on the role of scientific networks in academic research, addressed research ecosystems in Europe, digital platforms for academic collaboration, joint research processes, and strategies for developing international connections for researchers. Sessions discussed common needs, expectations, and challenges in education and research, aiming to strengthen knowledge sharing between institutions and participants.
Qualitative data analysis and academic discussion workshops
The program included hands-on workshops on qualitative data analysis using NVivo software. These sessions focused on interpreting qualitative research data and evidence-based evaluation processes. Academic discussion sessions covered topics such as scientific thinking, developing evidence-based arguments, and logical reasoning.
Intercultural communication and collaboration
Intercultural communication and multilingualism were also important components of the program. Activities supporting collaborative work among participants from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds assessed communication and inclusive collaboration approaches within international research teams. Team-based scientific studies and digital collaboration sessions enabled students to participate in collaborative production processes.
The academic program was complemented by school visits and cultural events. School and museum visits in Kuldīga provided participants with the opportunity to experience the educational environment and cultural heritage of the host country. Intercultural encounters fostered communication and the sharing of experiences among students.
INTERNATIONAL LEARNING EXPERIENCE
Academic Development and International Cooperation
Organized around two different themes, these programs enabled our students to address current issues in their fields in an international setting and to interact with students and academics from different countries. Activities covering social work, digital security, scientific research, and intercultural communication ensured that academic learning was supported by practical applications.
Our university's participation as a partner in both programs has created a valuable experience in terms of strengthening international academic collaborations through student involvement. These activities carried out within the scope of Erasmus+ have supported our students in getting to know different learning environments and participating in international cooperation processes.
As Sivas Cumhuriyet University, we would like to thank our students who participated in the programs, the host Riga Technical University Liepāja Academy, and all partner institutions for their contributions.