From April 28 to May 9, 2025, the Department of Social Work, Faculty of Arts and Education, Kauno kolegija Higher Education Institution (HEI) will be hosting lectures for students of the Social Work study programme by visiting lecturer Prof. Dr Pāvels Jurs from Riga Technical University, Liepaja Academy (Latvia).

The professor’s visit is implemented under the programme Social Work As A Prerequisite For Ensuring Civic Society And Quality Of Life For Young People. The lecturer will present to future social workers relevant topics related to civic activism, social needs of youth, knowledge transfer in society and the role of social work in strengthening civic engagement.

Prof. Dr Pāvels Jurs has a PhD in pedagogical sciences with many years of academic experience. He has lectured in Lithuania and various European countries, actively participates in international project activities, is a member of the editorial boards of scientific journals, and has prepared more than 40 scientific publications. The professor has been a member of the scientific committee of the student conference of the Department of Social Work and, in 2024, also visited Kauno kolegija HEI, receiving excellent feedback from students.

The knowledge conveyed and the methods used during this visit will be integrated into the subjects of the Social Work study programme (Social Groups and Cultural Diversity, Social Work with Individuals and Groups, etc.), strengthening the students’ subject, professional and research competencies. Participation in the classes helps students to understand the social work profession more deeply, acquire practical skills and develop a holistic approach to working with different groups of society.

The students’ feedback on the classes led by the professor is extremely positive. Both the modern content and the active teaching methods used are appreciated. According to the students, the acquired knowledge and practical skills significantly contribute to their professional growth and preparation for work with various social groups.