Implementation of the project "Network IQ Alliance" continues

June 2023 was active for the implementation of the project "Network IQ Alliance". Throughout the month, training was held within the framework of WP3: "Train-the-Trainer and Learning Excellence Hubs". From the EKA University of Applied Sciences, the Rector, Dr. oec. Oksana Lentjusenkova, Vice-Rector for Science, Dr. oec. Jelena Titko, Associate Professor, Dr. psyh. Kristine Uzule, Assistant Professor, Dr. oec. Kaspars Steinbergs, and Head of the Development of the Scientific Institution, Dr. oec. Jevgenija Dehtjare, participated in this training.

During the training, the participants learned the concept of Network Intelligence (Network IQTM), which was authored by Dr. Daria Tataj, Honorary Professor, Massoud Center for Entrepreneurship, University of Manchester. The training program included topics on network theory, network development, networking, Network IQTM skills, and using LinkedIn. In addition, on June 29 and 30, EKA representatives also attended the master class led by Dr. Daria Tataj. It should be noted that the Rector of the EKA University of Applied Sciences, O. Lentjusenkova, is also a member of the Train-the-Trainer Standardization Working Group, whose purpose is to develop a Network IQTM methodology manual for higher education institutions.

In addition, on June 29, a meeting of project partners was held in Barcelona at La Salle Ramon Llull University, where the actualities of project implementation were discussed. Kaspars Steinbergs, project manager of the Scientific Institution, represented EKA.

This university was chosen as the meeting place not only because it is the leading partner of the project but also because it hosted the XXI Triple Helix conference "Entrepreneurial and Engaged Universities for Sustainable Development." K. Steinbergs also participated in this conference with the report "Industry-University Cooperation: A Case Study in Latvia".

As K. Steinbergs admitted, participation in the conference and the project meeting made it possible to create synergy between the projects "Innovation Grants for Students in the Interdisciplinary Areas of Art, Culture, Economics, and IT (MaKE IT)" and "Network IQ Alliance".

"Network IQ Alliance", of which EKA is also a partner, is one of the projects of the Higher Education Initiative (HEI) program of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT). Strengthening the innovation capacity of higher education is one of the main priorities of the EIT in its new strategy "EIT Strategic Innovation Program 2021–2027.". It aims to support higher education institutions with knowledge and training, as well as access to the EIT′s innovation ecosystem and funding, enabling them to develop innovation action plans that complement their individual needs.