Niagara College’s Global Engagement team welcomed a delegation of 27 educational leaders from Slovenia this fall. The visit was a valuable occasion for exchanging best practices, exploring partnership opportunities, and strengthening the bonds between NC and the Slovenian educational community.
The delegates represented Slovenian colleges and other Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) stakeholders as part of “Challenger”, an Erasmus + program. The program aims to exchange best practices with colleges in southern Ontario and make connections with the local Slovenian community.
The visit occurred on October 11 at the Daniel J. Patterson campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake. The tour included learning about NC Sustainability and Research & Innovation, as well as visiting NC’s Learning Enterprises, such as the Teaching Winery, Teaching Brewery, Teaching Distillery, and the Wine Visitor + Education Centre.
The visit unfolded with a focus on applied research, exploring topics such as integrating research into the curriculum, the roles of teachers in research, up-skilling educators for effective facilitation, and community engagement in research initiatives.
“The key highlights of the visit were NC’s visionary approach and the commitment to a student-centered way of working,” said Tjaša Petelin Bačar, Project Manager at the Intercompany Training Centre, Nova Gorica School Centre. “These aspects left a lasting impression on our delegation, emphasizing the importance of a forward-thinking and student-centred approach to education. We saw a great illustration of how a united team can build a positive and supportive educational atmosphere.”
Inga Krusič Lamut, principal at the Secondary School of Economics and Trade, Nova Gorica School Centre, expressed her admiration for the alignment of core values between Niagara College and her institution.
“I appreciate NC’s work with the community, respect for diversity, sustainability, and focus on the future development of education,” said Lamut. “I was particularly impressed with the outdoor classrooms and the overall positive energy on campus.”
A highlight of the visit was a stand-up lunch reception where School of Culinary Arts students cooked for the delegation as part of their midterm exam. The event made possible a genuine and authentic connection between the delegation and the student community.
Tanja Blažič, teacher at the School of Electrical Engineering and Computers, Nova Gorica School Centre, commended the high standards showcased during the event provided by NC students.
“We were impressed with the facilities in the classrooms,” said Blažič. “The friendliness of the students, the service, and the food itself were of a very high quality.”
By emphasizing Niagara College’s dedication to innovation, student success, and collaboration, the visit fostered meaningful connections and inspired appreciation from the Slovenian delegation for the college’s exceptional educational environment.
