| The kick-off meeting for the BERNIСA project took place on March 15-16, 2023, at the Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University, Almaty, Kazakhstan. The meeting proved to be exceptionally successful and productive. The participants from 8 universities in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and FH JOANNEUM Gesellschaft MBH, Graz, Austria, and Istanbul Medipol Universitesi, Istanbul, Turkey, were warmly welcomed, creating a comfortable and friendly atmosphere. The organization of the meeting was top-notch, taking into account all the details and needs of the participants. Additionally, the location of the meeting in Almaty added a special charm and attractiveness to the event. |  |
The introduction at the kick-off meeting proceeded smoothly, fostering a favorable environment for collaboration and work. The participants gladly introduced themselves and their professional achievements, which facilitated the establishment of mutual trust and understanding. The meeting served as an excellent opportunity to get acquainted with various experts and specialists.
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Furthermore, the participants were introduced to the BERNIСA project with its interesting and promising ideas, plans and development strategies. Getting to know the BERNIСA project marked an important step in establishing a strong partnership and mutually beneficial cooperation. |
Regarding the kick-off meeting, particular attention was given to the significance and possibilities of online learning. Tools and platforms that will be utilized for conducting educational sessions and facilitating interaction among project participants in an online format were discussed. Key stages and a schedule for online learning were also determined.
| The summer school in Issyk-Kul was also a part of the kick-off meeting's agenda. The goals and expectations of the summer school were outlined, and discussions were held regarding logistics, accommodation, and the program of the event. Such a gathering provides an opportunity for closer interaction and exchange of knowledge and experience among project participants. |  |
Within the framework of the kick-off meeting, plans for exploratory visits to universities were also discussed. The participants of the project deliberated on the goals and objectives of such visits and identified a list of universities to be visited. Exploratory visits offer an opportunity for sharing best practices, establishing partnerships, and expanding professional networks.