As part of a collaborative scientific research initiative titled "Functional textile materials and products for the needs of the military, medical personnel, hospital staff, and civilian population (ORTOKNIT)", implemented under the Ukrainian-Lithuanian international scientific cooperation program, a working visit was conducted to Kaunas University of Technology from May 18 to May 24, 2025.

The Ukrainian delegation included Dr. Liudmyla Halavska, Doctor of Technical Sciences and Professor, who leads the research project, Head of Research Department, Professor of Fashion Technology Department, Faculty of Arts and Fashion. Joining her were research project contributors Mariia Kravchuk and Anna Vardanian, both postgraduate students in their second and third years of study, respectively, specializing in Consumer Industry Technologies (specialty G15).

As part of the international scientific cooperation, a working meeting took place between the Ukrainian delegation and representatives of Kaunas University of Technology (KTU, Lithuania).

The event took place in an exceptionally warm and welcoming atmosphere, fostering constructive scientific dialogue. The Lithuanian side was represented by Professor Daiva Mikučionienė, the head of the bilateral project and the Vice Dean for Research at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Design. Alongside her team members – Professor Rimvydas Milašius and Dr. Ginta Laureckienė – she introduced the Ukrainian colleagues to the modern educational and scientific laboratories of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Design, as well as to the state-of-the-art facilities used for applied research.

The Ukrainian delegation was particularly impressed by the dedicated student workspaces and the educational laboratory designed to develop practical skills in garment construction and manufacturing technology. This innovative learning environment enables students to not only refine their professional competencies but also to bring their original design projects to life, transforming creative concepts into complete clothing collections and art objects. The presentation of student works provided a vivid demonstration of how theoretical knowledge is seamlessly integrated with hands-on practice, while also highlighting the creative approaches employed by Kaunas University of Technology in training specialists in textile engineering and design.

During the visit, a meeting was also held with Professor Rūta Rimašauskienė, Head of the Department of Production Engineering at KTU, to discuss prospects for expanding academic collaboration and implementing joint research projects. The organization of academic and research mobility within the framework of the bilateral project provided the doctoral students Mariia Kravchuk and Anna Vardanian with the opportunity to learn about the specifics of annual doctoral evaluations and dissertation defense procedures.

As part of a workshop organized by the Lithuanian partners of the bilateral project in Vilnius, the methodology for investigating the antibacterial properties of the developed knitted material samples was discussed and agreed upon. Equally significant was the cultural component of this off-site scientific seminar. The representatives of the Ukrainian delegation had the opportunity to experience manifestations of Ukrainian culture in the very heart of Lithuania's capital. It was deeply moving to see the monument to the Great Kobzar, established in Vilnius in September 2011, and to stroll along the Ukrainian Alley – a symbolic space that embodies unity, mutual support, and cultural respect between the Ukrainian and Lithuanian peoples.

The visit to Kaunas University of Technology represented not only a significant stage in the development of scientific partnership but also an important step in strengthening the bonds of friendship and cultural ties between Ukraine and Lithuania. The meetings, exchange of ideas, and joint initiatives imbued this trip with a special significance – a dialogue of trust, mutual understanding, and support.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Lithuanian people, and especially to the academic community of Kaunas University of Technology, for their unwavering solidarity and support during this challenging and anxious time of the exhausting war in Ukraine. Your support is not merely an expression of humanity and goodwill but a substantial contribution to a shared European educational and scientific future founded on trust, mutual respect, and unity.

29.05.2025