Новини May 30, 2026
12th International Staff Week in Spain: UNFU expands horizons of international cooperation under Erasmus+ programme
From 25 to 29 May 2026, the Head of the Department of Public Administration and Management at the Ukrainian National Forestry University, doctor of sciences in public administration, professor Nadiia Kalashnyk, participated in the 12th International Staff Week. This large-scale international event was hosted by one of the oldest universities in Europe — the University of Valladolid (Spain) — within the framework of the Erasmus+ Programme.
The event brought together representatives of universities from nearly 20 countries worldwide — from Europe and the Caucasus to Central Asia and North Africa. Despite all current challenges, Ukraine was worthily represented by Ukrainian National Forestry University .
The entire programme of the International Staff Week was structured into five intensive days, which open new dimensions of cooperation and inspiring further development.
Day 1. Official Start (25 May 2026)
The active work of the 12th International Staff Week officially began. The first day was dedicated to networking, acquaintance among participants, and defining the main goals of this international academic event.
Day 2. “Gastronomic” Diplomacy and Sustainable Development (26 May 2026)
This was an intensive and, in the literal sense, a “tasty” day focused on strengthening international cooperation. UNFU was presented to colleagues from various countries, highlighting its academic achievements, research interests, and readiness for joint educational projects.
One of the most memorable moments was the “International Coffee” session, where participants shared traditional foods and beverages from their countries. Such gastronomic diplomacy effectively helps overcome barriers, build informal connections, and lay the foundation for future cooperation agreements.
The second part of the day was dedicated to activities at the Institute for Sustainable Development campus, offering valuable insights of how sustainability principles are integrated into educational infrastructure and institutional strategies across different sectors.
Day 3. Internationalisation and Networking (27 May 2026)
The day continued with active work on the internationalisation of education and strengthening academic ties. Discussions focused on identifying shared research interests and exploring innovative directions for future collaboration.
Day 4. Field Session in Segovia (28 May 2026)
This day took place at the University of Valladolid campus in Segovia. The focus was on a fundamental issue in modern educational management: building an effective learning environment.
Key topics included:
– Hybrid reality: integrating physical and virtual university spaces to ensure continuous and high-quality learning.
– Philosophy of space: a modern campus is not only about buildings but also inclusivity, sustainability, comfort, and functionality.
– Empowering space: how well-designed environments act as a “soft power” tool that enhances communication, stimulates creativity, and expands the capabilities of all participants in the educational process.
– The experience of Spanish colleagues provides strong inspiration for implementing best international standards at UNFU.
The participants also visited the legendary University of Valladolid library. Being nearly 700 years old, it creates an extraordinary sense of historical continuity and intellectual heritage, offering inspiration for new academic achievements!
Day 5. Final Day: History and Future (29 May 2026)
The programme concluded with the official awarding of certificates confirming successful participation. This document represents not only formal completion but also readiness for new joint projects, expansion of professional networks, and strengthening the position of the Ukrainian National Forestry University in the global academic community.
Ukrainian National Forestry University sincerely thanks the University of Valladolid for its outstanding hospitality, valuable experience, and openness to cooperation. We return home enriched with new knowledge, fresh ideas for development, and strong motivation to drive positive change and further strengthen international collaboration.
Nadiia KALASHNYK
Head of the Department of Public Management and Administration