Within the framework of the ReGrow project, two international Study Visits were organized in 2025, bringing together representatives from partner institutions in Georgia, Ukraine, Greece, and Germany. Hosted by leading European universities, the visits aimed to strengthen higher agricultural education, promote digital innovation, and support the development of modern, practice-oriented curricula for the agricultural sector.
Study Visit in Thessaloniki: Innovation in Agricultural Education
From 15 to 19 September 2025, the ReGrow consortium held its first Study Visit in Thessaloniki, Greece, hosted by the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTH). The five-day programme focused on modern pedagogical approaches, research infrastructures, and digital farming practices.
The visit opened at the AUTH Farm with sessions on innovative teaching methodologies, including student-centred learning, blended education, and the use of digital tools such as Mentimeter, Kahoot, and Padlet. Participants were also introduced to the Farm Field Schools model, which links theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice.
During the following days, partners explored AUTH’s Research and Innovation Laboratories, engaging with experts in precision agriculture, soil science, agricultural engineering, food technology, and livestock production. These visits demonstrated how research infrastructure and practical training are integrated into academic programmes to prepare market-ready graduates.
The programme concluded with a field visit to the Kravvas family farm, where participants observed digital agriculture solutions in practice, including sensors, drones, decision-support systems, and smart irrigation. The visit highlighted the skills and competencies expected from future agricultural professionals and the importance of modernized curricula.
Study Visit in Triesdorf: Digital Innovation and Applied Learning
The second Study Visit took place from 27 to 29 October 2025 at the Weihenstephan-Triesdorf University of Applied Sciences (HSWT) in Germany. Over three days, participants explored HSWT’s applied education model, strong links with industry, and advanced precision farming solutions.
The programme included presentations on HSWT’s academic structure and international opportunities, such as the Master’s programme in Farm Management, the Practical Semester (Praxissemester), Online Semester options, and professional training courses.
Participants also visited the Competence Centre for Digital Agribusiness (KoDA), where they learned about digital innovation in agriculture and the Master’s programme in Green Digital Engineering. Field visits to local farms showcased real-life applications of precision agriculture technologies.
The Study Visit concluded with a guided tour of HORSCH Maschinen GmbH, offering insights into innovative agricultural machinery and advanced precision farming systems.
Moving Forward Together
Both Study Visits provided valuable knowledge, practical examples, and inspiration for partner institutions. By combining academic excellence, hands-on experience, and industry engagement, the ReGrow Study Visits significantly contributed to strengthening cooperation within the consortium and advancing modern, resilient, and future-oriented agricultural education in Georgia and Ukraine.