In continued spirit of academic collaboration, faculty members from Sumy National Agrarian University (SNAU) visited the Czech University of Life Sciences Prague (CZU) as part of the Erasmus+ Staff Mobility Programme. SNAU members included: Svitlana Khursenko, Hanna Barsukova, and Viktor Onyshko. Their visit focused on innovation, knowledge exchange, and future cooperation in agricultural sciences and engineering. During the training, they had the opportunity to explore advanced technologies and innovative approaches developed by CZU colleagues in various areas of agricultural science and education. 

 

During their visit they toured several key research facilities at CZU, each showcasing innovative technologies and approaches. At the BRT laboratory, they explored advanced anaerobic digestion technologies, systems for controlling process parameters, and strategies to optimize biogas yield. The team was particularly intrigued by research on the use of diverse feedstocks, ranging from traditional agricultural residues to emerging and unconventional substrates. In the Solid Biofuels Laboratory, the focus shifted to biomass pellet research, emphasizing the energy efficiency and environmental benefits of converting plant-based waste into fuel. The visit to the FTZ greenhouse center, led by the Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences (FTZ), highlighted work on acclimating tropical and subtropical crops to new environments, with a notable example being the commercial sale of seedlings to local residents - a creative blend of science, education, and community engagement. At the Faculty of Engineering laboratories, the group examined a unique training and research facility where students assemble and test sports cars, gaining practical experience with automotive technologies in collaboration with major manufacturers. Finally, the delegation visited ProLabTechnology, a cutting-edge lab dedicated to the design and testing of aerial and ground-based drones. These technologies are being developed for a variety of uses, including agricultural applications and emergency response efforts such as wildfire mitigation. 

 

A key highlight of the visit was the opportunity to engage in scientific discussions organized by the BRT. The SNAU faculty actively participated in regular meetings where young researchers shared their current projects, recent achievements, and future research directions. These sessions provided a platform for meaningful exchange and collaboration. 

 

The delegation also presented a research initiative from SNAU’s Faculty of Engineering and Technology, offering insight into their engineering science project and fostering dialogue around shared academic interests. This mutual exchange not only deepened scientific understanding but also laid the groundwork for future cooperation between the institutions. 

 

In addition to academic activities, the SNAU team experienced the cultural and ceremonial aspects of university life at CZU. They attended the inauguration of newly appointed faculty deans (including BRT Director Hynek Roubik) and the awarding of PhD diplomas - an inspiring demonstration of European academic traditions and values in practice.  

 

The BRT team values its strong partnership with SNAU and looks forward to deepening collaboration through future joint activities and shared research initiatives. 

 

 

 

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