The cooperation of the Department of Social Work of the Faculty of Arts and Education of Kauno kolegija Higher Education Institution (HEI) with the Jonava District Social Services Centre provided an opportunity for students from the Czech Republic and Spain to complete an international internship in Lithuania. This is a significant platform for professional experience, where theoretical knowledge is consolidated through real professional challenges.

During the internship, which lasted several months, the students became thoroughly acquainted with the Lithuanian social services system, observed the activities of specialists in various departments of the centre, and participated in daily activities together with service recipients. This practical experience not only broadened their professional horizons but also helped them reflect on their professional identity as future social workers.

The Jonava District Social Services Centre provides comprehensive services to various target groups – children, families, seniors, persons with disabilities, persons affected by addictions, refugees and immigrants. Such an environment develops cultural sensitivity, promotes interdisciplinary cooperation, and helps students to understand the essence and values ​​of social work more deeply.

Director of the Jonava District Social Services Centre, Associate Professor of the Department of Social Work of the Faculty of Arts and Education of Kauno kolegija HEI, Dr Valentina Demidenko emphasises: ‘This is an invaluable experience for both foreign social work students and specialists of the Jonava Social Services Centre.’ This mutual exchange of knowledge and experience not only strengthens professional ties but also contributes to the formation of an international social work context.

Representatives of the Department of Social Work are pleased with the meaningful cooperation with the Jonava District Social Services Centre, which strengthens intercultural competencies, and the connections established during the internship contribute to the growth of the professional community in Lithuania and Europe.

The article was prepared based on information from the Jonava District Social Services Centre.