Impressions from International Week at Inonu University in Malatya
The International Staff Week, organized by Inonu University in Turkey, brought together academics and education specialists from various countries to share experiences, learn about innovations in education, and get acquainted with Turkish culture. Panevėžio kolegija/State Higher Education Institution was represented by the International Relations Coordinator, Jovita Kaziukonytė-Levanienė; the Senior Engineer at the Center for Applied Research and Innovation, Kęstutis Lukoševičius; and the consultants at the Study and Career Center, Edita Kriukaitė and Laima Astrauskienė.
The week began with an introduction to the participants, which helped them establish initial connections. Later, Prof. Dr. S. Nihat Şad presented a talk on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in education, highlighting previously underappreciated dimensions of education. Dr. Emrah Pektaş shared insights on Turkey’s experience with the digitization of the education system. A dinner for the participants was held at the university, providing an opportunity for informal conversation and an introduction to the local culture. Meetings with academic departments and a tour of the university took place, introducing the infrastructure and research laboratories. Emrullah Tayyip Karçiçeği, a former Erasmus+ student at Panevėžio kolegija/State Higher Education Institution, introduced to his favorite spots on campus. During International Week, a special cultural activity took place—a Turkish cuisine workshop at the Movenpick Hotel, where participants prepared traditional dishes themselves and deepened their understanding of local gastronomy. They also explored local arts and took part in related educational programs.
The week concluded with a trip to Cappadocia, where participants explored the unique landscape, took a tour of the region, and in the evening attended a farewell dinner at a restaurant, which provided an opportunity to share impressions and reflect on the week’s experiences.
