Security is an important topic both globally and for the Baltic and Scandinavian countries that are members of the Nordplus program. We are currently facing new challenges related to the impact of war, migration, conflicts rooted in cultural and religious differences, cyberattacks, and other threats to our security. Therefore, it is becoming increasingly important for educational institutions to prepare capable and knowledgeable security specialists who can tackle these threats and challenges. Moreover, security is an international discipline, and only through cooperation and uniting forces can Europe confront these new security threats.

For this reason, five partner universities –  Turiba University (Latvia), Kazimieras Simonavicius University (Lithuania), Tallinn University of Technology (Estonia), LAUREA University of Applied Sciences (Finland), and Nord University (Norway) – have been cooperating and are jointly implementing an intensive course on security risk management. In August 2024, 28 students from these five universities participated in the intensive course, which took place at Turiba University in Riga. This course provided an opportunity for students to receive intensive training, offering in-depth knowledge in the field of security.

The course provided insights into topics such as security theory, individual and organizational security, globalization, crisis management, energy security, cybersecurity, conflict resolution, cooperation, and leadership.

As part of the intensive course, students participated in lectures, practical classes, discussions with professionals and experts, and study visits. Lecturers from five countries participated in the course. This course offered an excellent opportunity to study and work in an international environment with students from Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, Norway, and Finland.

“Currently, the world, economy, and business are becoming increasingly global and international. Almost every profession requires the ability and skill to work in international teams, build collaborations, understand other cultures, and establish connections with colleagues and clients from around the world. As a result, gaining international experience has become an integral part of studies. This is precisely why intensive courses, or summer schools, provide an excellent international experience for students who, for various reasons, do not wish or are unable to participate in exchange programs abroad for a semester or a year. Intensive courses are usually an exciting and unforgettable experience, during which students not only gain new knowledge but also form friendships and collaborations,” emphasizes one of the course creators, Kristīne Neimane from Turiba University.

Students really enjoyed the time in Riga, let to know Latvia and its culture and also developed professional skills and knowledge. “The lectures were interesting, and the lecturers were excellent. I gained knowledge on several subjects directly related to my field of work. Even during the course, I began applying what I learned to my work projects. I highly recommend this course; it is relevant to a wide range of industries and professionals” says one of the course participants from Norway.

The course took place in Riga from August 13th to August 24th, 2024. You can find the course program, presentations, and videos HERE.

The course was organized with financial support from the NORDPLUS program. The project involved five universities: Turiba University (Latvia), Kazimieras Simonavicius University (Lithuania), Tallinn University of Technology (Estonia), LAUREA University of Applied Sciences (Finland), and Nord University (Norway). Project number: NPHE-2024/10358.