As part of the Latvian state budget-funded programme “Cultural Orientation Courses and Integration Activities for Ukrainian Civilians”, the project “STRONG TOGETHER – 3. СИЛЬНІ РАЗОМ – 3” (ID No. 2024.LV/UKR_KO/003/L2), cultural orientation courses were held remotely via the e-conferencing platform ZOOM from November 20, 2024, to December 19, 2024. A total of 40 Ukrainian civilians participated in these courses. The sessions were led by knowledgeable and experienced educators who, through their professionalism and enthusiasm, provided participants with a wide range of modern and practically applicable information, offering an opportunity to deepen their knowledge and enhance understanding of Latvian culture, society, and daily life.
The courses were organized within a total of 32 academic hours and covered the following topics: “History of Latvia” (Mg. hist., Mg. paed. Andris Kupšāns), “Values of the Latvian Cultural Canon” (Dr. philol. Žans Badins), “Public 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 in Work and Everyday Life” (Dr. paed. Sandra Zariņa), “Social and Healthcare Services” (Mg. paed. Jānis Pitrāns), and “Business Start-up Opportunities” (Mg. oec. Tatjana Daudiša).
The sessions offered a wide and diverse range of topics that combined both theoretical and practical aspects, providing course attendees with valuable and significant insights into many important areas. The project target audience listened with genuine interest to discussions on the political and socio-economic processes in Latvia during various historical periods, getting acquainted with the country’s rich cultural values, traditions, and peculiarities of lifestyle. The participants actively engaged in discussions, appreciating the opportunity to ask questions freely and jointly analyze situations related to the use of the Latvian language in daily life, healthcare, social services, and safety aspects. Furthermore, by exploring the specifics of Latvia’s business environment and receiving practical advice, they gained not only valuable knowledge but also encouragement and confidence in their skills. The audience noted that these sessions not only broadened their horizons but also helped them gain a deeper understanding of the values in the Latvian society.
Ukrainian civilians eagerly participated in discussions and shared their experiences, creating an open and friendly dialogue not only with the educators but also with each other. The project target audience acknowledged that the information they gained significantly enhanced their understanding of Latvia’s economy, business opportunities, healthcare and social services system, as well as the country’s history, culture, and traditions. They especially appreciated the advice and suggestions provided, which will help them navigate Latvian society and daily life. The participants emphasized that this knowledge has contributed to their integration into the new environment and has given them confidence in their ability to actively engage in public life and achieve success.
The content and activities of the project are overseen by the Daugavpils University Association for Lifelong Learning, Cultural and Science Communication “Intellect Park”.
