Within the framework of HECAFS cooperation program, a five-day study visit to Latvia at the last week of September, was organized for teachers of two higher educational institutions of Tajikistan (KPITTU named after M. Osimi and TAU named after Sh.Shotemur) and Kyrgyzstan (KSTU named after I.Razzakov and KEU named after M. Ryskulbekov), as well as for the group of entrepreneurs of two countries. 

The purpose of the trip was to get acquainted with the activities of the Latvia University of Agriculture (LUA), its faculties, management structures and educational processes. It was also planned to visit research laboratories, sanitary-veterinary services and industrial plants.

On the first day of the visit, the participants have visited the Latvia University of Agriculture, where they’ve met the Rector of the University Mrs. Irina Pilvere and the Project manager Mrs. Irina Kulitane. Speakers presented the history of the university, the structure of management, faculties, cooperation and social life in the LUA. The Latvia University of Agriculture is a higher educational institution and a scientific research institution. The main goal of the university is to create intellectual potential for sustainable development of Latvia and its rural areas. Currently 4293 students study at the university, 931 employees work, and university has 62 degree programs.

Participants also have visited the Faculty of Food Technology, in order to familiarize with possibilities of its sensory laboratory.

During the second day participants got acquainted with the work of the modern LUA library, rating its possibilities high. Further, the participants have visited the Food and Veterinary Service and the National Research Center “BIOR”. Participants listened to the presentations on the legislative base of European countries, their requirements and conditions for the production of a particular product. Participants also got acquainted with the activities of the BIOR’s laboratories, which are equipped with the most modern equipment.

Next two days participants attended the production facilities for processing berries, fruits and vegetables. They also got acquainted with the work of the farm and dairy plant. These two days were aimed at obtaining practical knowledge because participants had the opportunity to observe the whole process directly. They got familiarized with production structures, main and additional shops and equipment that help manufacturers automate the process and minimize losses.

The last day of the visit to the LUA was busy and productive. Participants have listened to a seminar on the topic: “Introduction to the Master’s Program in Food”, participated in a practical lesson “Wine and Cider Production” and discussed the tasks to be performed within the HECAFS program. At the end of the fifth day, the results of the week have been discussed, and each participant was awarded with a certificate.