In the historic heart of Prague, under the watchful gaze of centuries-old spires, the University of Finance and Administration (UF&A) hosted an event that was as much a celebration of diversity as it was an academic congregation. From April 8 to April 12, 2024, the VŠFS International Days unfolded like a meticulously woven tapestry, each thread representing a participant, a workshop, a shared meal, or a laughter-filled moment, crafting a narrative rich in knowledge, connection, and mutual understanding.
The event was graced by a conclave of intellectuals from various corners of the globe, each bringing their own unique flavours of expertise and cultural background:
- Lenka Labudová, University of St. Cyril and Methodius, Slovakia
- Simona Gavrilaş, “Aurel Vlaicu” University of Arad, Romania
- Önder Dorak, University of Anadolu, Turkey
- Bartłomiej Lisicki, University of Economics in Katowice, Poland
- Ayşegül Şahin, University of Anadolu, Turkey
- Riccardo Savio, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
- Dawid Szramowski, University of Gdańsk, Poland
Day 1: Harmony of Diverse Voices
On the first day, as attendees converged in room E104, the air was thick with anticipation. Diverse accents filled the room, each voice carrying the weight of its origin, its culture, its unique perspective. The initial formalities, the registration, and the introductory round table weren't just procedural necessities; they were the opening chords of an intricate symphony of human connection.
The guided Prague tour that followed wasn't merely a sightseeing excursion; it was a journey through time and history, a collective exploration of our shared heritage. The informal welcome drink that evening allowed laughter and stories to intermingle, creating a tapestry of camaraderie that set the tone for the days ahead.
Day 2: Unravelling the Mysteries of Data
Önder Dorak's workshop on "Data Visualization/Data Analytics in R or PowerBI" wasn't just an academic exercise; it was a narrative of our times, a reflection of our reality translated into numbers and patterns. As attendees delved into the complexities of data, they also navigated the nuances of communication across diverse backgrounds, finding common ground in the universal language of knowledge.
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YzEMxn6PMTY
Day 3: AI as a Mirror to Our Humanity
The workshop "AI Driven Decision-Making" led by V. Knihová and her colleagues wasn't merely about understanding artificial intelligence; it was about confronting our reflections in the mirror of technology. As participants engaged with AI, they also engaged with each other, debating, discussing, and deciphering the ethical and philosophical dimensions of this digital frontier.
The SAP on-site visit provided a tangible connection to the abstract discussions, offering a glimpse into the practical implications of our technological dialogues, grounding the theoretical in the tangible.
Day 4: Building Blocks of Responsibility and Play
Leon Kushnir's workshop using LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® was a profound exploration of responsibility through the lens of play. It was a reminder that wisdom doesn't always wear a serious face, that profound insights can emerge from the simplicity of interlocking bricks, and that play can be a powerful vehicle for understanding, empathy, and ethical reflection.
The International Week Dinner that evening was a celebration not just of the week's accomplishments but of the shared human journey, a feast that nourished the body as much as it nourished the soul.
Day 5: Reflections and Resonance
The final day's round-table discussions were a kaleidoscope of reflections, a chorus of diverse voices sharing their experiences, insights, and aspirations. The exchange of certificates symbolized not the end, but a milestone in a continuing journey of learning, exploration, and connection.
As the week drew to a close, the participants realized that they were taking home much more than certificates and souvenirs; they were carrying with them new perspectives, new friendships, and a renewed sense of our shared humanity.
In a world often divided by borders, languages, and ideologies, the International Staff Week at UF&A stands as a testament to the power of education to unite, to transform, and to inspire, reminding us that in the realm of knowledge, we are all perpetual students, teachers, and travellers on a shared journey toward understanding, empathy, and enlightenment.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.
