DAAD HSWT PROJECT “DIGIT 3: DATA COLLECTION AND DIGITALIZATION WITH A FOCUS ON UNIVERSITY COLLEGES IN 2024”

The delegation of Vinnytsia National Agrarian University (VNAU) has begun its visit to Germany as part of the international academic mobility program. In cooperation with Weihenstephan-Triesdorf University of Applied Sciences, VNAU and its colleges are implementing the DAAD HSWT project “Digit 3: Data Collection and Digitalization with a Focus on University Colleges in 2024.”

Representatives of VNAU including Oleg Tsukran, Director of Ladyzhyn Vocational College of VNAU; Oksana Volynets, Lecturer of the courses on Economics; Valentyna Kazmir, Director of Mohyliv-Podilskyi Vocational College of Technology and Economics of VNAU; Pavlo Dovhan, Director of Chernyatyn Vocational College of VNAU; and Yurii Kurylenko, Director of Nemyriv Vocational College of Construction, Economics and Design of VNAU were participating in an international internship at HWST (Germany) from December 8 to December 13, 2024.

Traditionally, the first day began with welcoming, introducing partner universities, and identifying common areas for establishing further cooperation. The project coordinator, Liudmyla Kamzin, informed participants about the work plan for the designated period and announced opportunities and prospects for future collaboration.

The second day of the visit to Germany was exceptionally productive for the VNAU’s delegation, rich in constructive discussions, and focused on strengthening international cooperation.

Professor Ralf Schlauderer addressed the participants of the international academic mobility program with a welcoming speech, outlining the main goals and objectives of the training, as well as emphasizing the importance of collaboration in scientific research.

Researchers from the WEIHENSTEPHAN-TRIESDORF University – Kateryna Tuzhyk, Vadym Petrenko, and Serhii Aksenov – presented the structure of a workbook for collecting and calculating data from agricultural enterprises to determine marginal income.

During the discussion, special attention was given to the importance of accurate cost and revenue analysis for effective planning. The next steps for improving the materials and developing specific examples were agreed upon.

After a coffee-break an engaging meeting was held with Kateryna Kron, a representative of the Institute for Agricultural Engineering and Rural Construction Research (KTBL). The project participants discussed current research and innovations in the field of agricultural machinery and construction, exploring opportunities for collaboration in implementing new technologies to improve agricultural efficiency.

The representatives of Ukrainian universities were shown an online glossary of agricultural terms as well as a statistical data handbook designed for operational planning in agriculture. The discussion also highlighted the prospects for joint scientific projects and experience exchange.

Professor Michael Tröster presented key aspects of biogas plant operations. As he explained, biogas plants are an essential part of sustainable development strategies, as they convert organic waste into energy, thereby reducing environmental impact.

This area is especially relevant for researchers at Vinnytsia National Agrarian University, as it aligns with the vision of the scientific school founded by academician Grygorii Kaletnik and reflects the University’s significant achievements in the field of alternative energy.

As a token of appreciation for the fruitful, long-standing cooperation, the VNAU delegates presented thematic souvenirs to their German partners.

The third day at Weihenstephan-Triesdorf University (HWST) was incredibly active, innovative, and productive! On this day, all participants had the opportunity to dive into some of the most pressing topics in agricultural science. 

Professor Franziska Wespel, a researcher in cereal crop breeding, presented her studies focused on increasing yields, improving disease resistance, and enhancing grain quality. Special attention was given to the application of modern biotechnologies that enable the development of crop varieties better adapted to climate change.

Professor Wolfram Spreer discussed critical aspects of water resource use in Germany’s agricultural sector. He noted that in the context of climate change and increasing demand for irrigation, the issue of water resource availability is becoming increasingly relevant. Irrigation is quite common in Germany and plays a vital role in maintaining high yields during dry periods when natural precipitation is insufficient.

Markus Heinz who heads the educational center led an engaging tour through the landmarks of Triesdorf, during which the participants learned about the history and culture of this picturesque town, its architectural monuments, castles, and squares that had preserved their ethnic heritage. Local legends and stories added even more fascination to the excursion.

The group also visited an apple orchard, which contains 1,200 varieties of apple trees, 300 varieties of pear trees, and 150 varieties of plum trees, as well as the innovative Merkendorf campus, where they were demonstrated the achievements in IT, start-ups, and digital technologies.

This day left many valuable impressions and inspiration for future work! All participants of the training gained new ideas and motivation for growth, while enjoying the atmosphere filled with innovation and creativity.

Day 4 of the international experience. Participants had the opportunity to observe agricultural production processes in Bavaria, gaining a deeper understanding of all stages and the importance of each step in agribusiness.

They visited the agricultural enterprise Müßighof in Bavaria, specifically a cattle farm, and explored modern farming practices. The overview of the latest agricultural machinery used for land cultivation and animal care was of great interest.

They also visited greenhouses where seedlings, greens, and tomatoes are grown. Experiences in this area were shared, particularly those actively implemented at VNAU through student farming initiatives. 

Additionally, all project participants visited a cheese-making workshop where they not only tasted various types of cheese but also studied the technological production process and learned about traditional German cheese-making traditions. During a lively conversation, they discussed the quality of raw materials, safety standards at the facility, and thoroughly analyzed the production line processes and storage of finished products.

The day was finished with a Christmas party at Weihenstephan-Triesdorf University. The festive atmosphere brought together cultural and social traditions of Bavaria, accompanied by traditional German Christmas songs. A spirit of unity and support filled every participant!

Thanks to the President of the University, Grygorii Kaletnik, we have a productive long-term partnership with Weihenstephan-Triesdorf University of Applied Sciences, which provides unique opportunities to gain international experience in the educational and scientific fields. Special thanks for the support of VNAU colleges, personal development, and the expansion of educational horizons!

And we keep on saying – VNAU makes dreams come true!

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