Section outline

    • The piloting of the Open University study format and newly developed study modules was implemented at the Andijan Institute of Agriculture and Agrotechnology during the period from 2 October to 12 December 2025. This initiative was carried out with the involvement of academic staff from the Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies and the Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra.
      Within the framework of the piloting, two study modules: “Fruit and Vegetable Processing Technologies” and “New Food Product Development” were introduced and tested, combining theoretical instruction with hands-on learning.
      From 3 to 7 November 2025, LBTU professors Dace Klava, Evita Straumite, and Liene Ozola led a series of lectures and laboratory sessions. Their teaching focused on modern fruit and vegetable processing techniques, as well as practical approaches to developing innovative food products. Eva Ivanisova and Oleg Paulen provided lectures on food innovation and alternative food sources. Piloting activities were supported by newly acquired equipment made available through the OFINU project, enabling participants to engage in applied experimentation.
      The piloting brought together a broad group of participants, including students, academic staff, and external learners, particularly employees from local food processing companies in the Andijan region. Their involvement contributed to a dynamic exchange of knowledge and strengthened the link between higher education and industry practice.
      Representatives from other partner universities, participating in the OFINU project, joined the activities, further enhancing collaboration and regional knowledge sharing. A visit to the production site of the associated partner, food producer “Navigul”, was organised. 
      The piloting process, including its concluding phase on 12 December 2025, focused on assessing the effectiveness of the Open University approach, as well as evaluating the relevance and quality of the study modules and teaching methods. The results highlight the strong potential for introducing innovative, practice-oriented learning models in the Fergana Valley - one of Central Asia’s key fruit-growing regions.

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