As part of the project “STRONG TOGETHER – 3. СИЛЬНІ РАЗОМ – 3” (ID No. 2024.LV/UKR_KO/003/L2), financed by the Latvian state budget programme “Cultural Orientation Courses and Integration Activities for Ukrainian Civilians”, cultural orientation courses were held remotely on the ZOOM e-conference platform from September 3, 2024, to October 2, 2024. A total of 40 Ukrainian civilians participated. The sessions were led by experienced educators with many years of experience, offering participants a wide range of relevant and up-to-date information.
The courses were organized over a total of 32 academic hours, covering the following topics: “Latvian History” (Mg. hist., Mg. paed. Andris Kupšāns); “Values of the Latvian Cultural Canon” (Dr. philol. Žans Badins); “Government Administration, Rule of Law, and Participation in Local Community Activities” (Dr. iur. Igors Trofimovs); “Society and Daily Life” (Dr. philol. Ingrīda Kupšāne); “Education” (Dr. paed. Sandra Zariņa); “Latvian Language at Work and in Everyday Life” (Dr. paed. Sandra Zariņa); “Social and Healthcare Services” (Mg. paed. Jānis Pitrāns); and “Opportunities for Entrepreneurship” (Mg. oec. Tatjana Daudiša).
The sessions provided a wide range of information, covering both theoretical and practical aspects of each topic. The project’s target audience eagerly listened to discussions about Latvia’s political and socio-economic processes across different time periods, learned about key cultural values, traditions, and lifestyle characteristics, and engaged in conversations about the use of the Latvian language in everyday life. Participants highly appreciated the opportunity to ask questions and discuss situations related to healthcare and other social services, as well as various safety aspects. They also had the chance to explore the specifics of the business environment and receive advice on starting their own enterprises.
Ukrainian civilians actively provided feedback, engaging in discussions and sharing experiences not only with the educators but also with each other. The project’s target audience acknowledged that the knowledge they gained broadened their perspectives and understanding of the economy, business opportunities, healthcare, social services, as well as Latvian history and culture. They also noted that this knowledge would help them integrate more successfully into Latvian society and daily life.
