From October 6 to 17 Dr Tomasz Mateusz Kasprzak, a recognised researcher in sociology from the University of Silesia in Katowice, Poland, visited the Department of Social Work at the Faculty of Arts and Education, Kauno kolegija Higher Education Institution. The topic of his visit was ‘Studies on Disability in Eastern Europe’.

Dr. T. M. Kasprzak actively collaborates with the department’s faculty members, having co-authored scientific papers for international conferences, participated in joint research projects, and contributed to academic publications.

The lectures were attended by students from the Social Work study programmes at the Faculty of Arts and Education, Alytus Faculty, and Tauragė Division. Students noted that the lectures were not only informative but also engaging, providing an opportunity to explore disability issues from an international perspective. They emphasised that the lecturer stood out for his warm communication style, creating an open, collaborative atmosphere and encouraging reflection on empathy and inclusion as key elements of the social work profession.

‘The lecture was particularly valuable because it provided not only theoretical knowledge but also hands-on learning through sensory experiences – touching, marking, and communicating. The lecturer introduced Braille and gave us the chance to explore a publication in this script, which helped us better understand how visually impaired people read and write,’ shares a student from the Faculty of Arts and Education.

‘I learned about the Lorm alphabet – a tactile communication system enabling deafblind people to communicate with their environment. It was an inspiring experience that helped me better understand a different way of perceiving the world,’ says a student from Tauragė Division.

‘Lectures like these foster empathy and help us realise how important it is in social work to connect with every individual, regardless of their abilities,’ notes a student from Alytus Faculty.

The visit contributed to the implementation of Kauno kolegija strategy, promoting internationalisation and inclusion, and strengthened networks of international cooperation among higher education institutions.

Since the Social Work study programme includes students with disabilities, this visit was particularly significant for enhancing students’ academic and research competencies, as well as for faculty professional development and updating study program content.