Assoc. Prof. Dr. E. Spiriajevas says that the knowledge, research, and methodologies shared by the guest are very important. This further strengthens the long-term cooperation between universities and the internationalization of education in the field of social geography.
“It is important to mention that KU and TMU have signed a Memorandum of Understanding and a Cooperation Agreement. We were able to establish relations with TMU 8 years ago. I have been there too, giving lectures, and now the long-awaited visit of Assoc. Prof. Dr. N. Yabe has finally taken place. The geography studies at both universities are very similar in structure and content: social geography and economic geography, urban and rural geography studies, extensive use of GIS technologies, spatial analysis, and strategic planning methods in the study process. The geography studies at both universities have the same research themes: urban geography, research into suburban areas, tourist market, and regional development processes,” explains the Head of Department.
According to Assoc. Prof. Dr. E. Spiriajevas, the guest’s lectures were very useful. Sharing knowledge, research, and its methodology allows to evaluate works completed, gain knowledge, apply it in practice, and upgrade skills.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. N. Yabe, the geographer from Tokyo, visited Lithuania for the first time. During his visit, he not only gave lectures, but also got acquainted with Klaipeda University, research and other projects the University conducts. He also visited the most beautiful nature attractions in seaside and got acquainted with the suburban communities of Klaipėda in Sendvaris subdistrict. The guest showed strong positive emotions and gave pleasant feedback about the people working at Klaipėda University.
“Visiting Lithuania and its seaside is a memorable event in my life. I can compare the contrasts between countries, their cities, and nature. The people I met at Klaipėda University were very nice. It is good to share knowledge and grow together”, - Dr. N. Yabe is truly generous with his words about Lithuania and KU.
The visit of the geographer Assoc. Prof. Dr. Naoto Yabe to Klaipeda University was organized by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Eduardas Spiriajevas, Jelena Bogatova, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Daiva Verkulevičiūtė-Kriukienė, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dr. Rita Nekrošienė, as well as Klaipėda Geography Community.
The guest’s visit was part of Erasmus+ participant grant agreement KA171 for the implementation of mobility activities following the award of a project under the 2022 call for proposals.