Vice-Dean Dr Magdalena Forfa from the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, University of Lomza, traveled to Finland from March 17 to 19, 2025, to participate in Staff Week organized by the Lapland University of Applied Sciences. The mobility was part of international initiatives devoted to sustainable development and social responsibility, and its main goal was not only to deepen knowledge in the field of modern technologies and digitalization but also to share her own experiences during lectures on sustainable development and CSR activities in the area of human resource management.
In addition to stay in Tornio, the Staff Week participants also visited Kemi and Rovaniemi, where Dr Forfa presented the concept of the planned Bulletin of Innovative Initiatives for the 2025/2026 academic year at the University of Lomza, emphasizing the connection between digitalization, the use of artificial intelligence tools, and sustainable development. During the trip, the University of Lomza was invited to organize upcoming international events, which attests to the growing importance of cooperation and the exchange of experiences on the global stage.
A highlight of the program was the visit to Laboratory X, a modern research and development space located on the campus of LAPIN AMK in Tornio. This venue exemplifies the ideal combination of innovative technologies with education and scientific research. Participants had the opportunity to experience firsthand how modern solutions, such as research using VR goggles, interactive educational tools, or a professionally equipped recording studio, can contribute to creating immersive educational experiences and enhancing the quality of conducted classes. Such experiences inspire the search for new teaching and scientific methods and influence the development of competencies related to digitalization and future technologies.
The trip to Finland also provided an opportunity to reflect on the strength of local initiatives that contribute to the revitalization of traditions and the development of entrepreneurship. A visit to a brewery, which was reactivated thanks to the engagement of local communities, served as a reminder of the importance of cooperation and creativity in regional development. This experience underscored how essential collaboration is both on an international and local level, as well as the many benefits that come from openness to new solutions and innovations.
Overall, the trip made a valuable contribution to the development of the University of Lomza by opening new perspectives in the fields of digitalization, sustainable development, and international cooperation. The experiences gained in Finland not only enriched Dr Forfa’s scientific horizons but also inspired further actions aimed at introducing innovative solutions in both teaching and research.
