🌱 A week packed with activities, learning, and unforgettable encounters flew by in the blink of an eye as Järvamaa College (Järvamaa Rakenduslik Kolledž) hosted teachers from the Lycée Technique Agricole (LTA) in Luxembourg. Eiki has concluded it as follows:
The visit offered the participants - Fons Logtenberg, Tom Kartheiser and Nora Schaul - a comprehensive overview of the diverse training programs across Järvamaa College’s various study locations. Beyond engaging discussions with staff and students, the guests even managed to find a common language with the "four-legged milk shelves" (🐄) inside the robotic milking parlor. The LTA delegation expressed great appreciation for Järvamaa College's director, who took the time to sit down for a meaningful discussion about the future of vocational education. The itinerary also included a highly informative visit to Olustvere School of Rural Economy, further broadening the guests' perspective on Estonian agricultural training.
Royal Greetings and Forestry Competitions at Järvselja
At the invitation of a close friend of the school, Mart Kelk, the group attended the 56th Forestry Vocational Competitions held at the Estonian University of Life Sciences (EMÜ) Järvselja Training and Experimental Forestry District. The undisputed highlight of the trip occurred during this event, where the delegation had the distinct honor of meeting the President of the Republic of Estonia, Mr. Alar Karis. Upon learning about the guests' background, President Karis kindly asked the LTA representatives to forward his warmest greetings to the Grand Duke of Luxembourg. To commemorate this special occasion, a ceremonial oak tree 🌳 was planted in the Hunting Lodge garden. The planting was a collaborative effort joined by:
- The Presidential Couple
- Forest Warden Tanel Piir
- EMÜ Rector Ülle Jaakmaa
A Doorway to Europe 🌎
Nora, Tom, and Fons didn't just observe; they also actively supported the Estonian students during the competitions. As a reward for their hard work and excellent achievements over the weekend, JC students Silver and Guido received an exciting personal invitation from Fons to complete their upcoming internships in Luxembourg.
Deeply Moved by Estonian Family Farming 🌿
The week concluded with a heartwarming visit to the Takkasaare farm, managed by a family honored with the title of "Farmer of the Year." Despite being in the middle of the incredibly busy silage-making season, the family generously carved out a whole day to welcome the guests.
They shared the inspiring story of their journey, detailing how a family farm founded in 1988 transformed into one of the very best in Estonia. The farm's impeccable order, meticulous work ethic, and unwavering commitment to animal health touched the Luxembourgish guests to their core.
This exchange program once again proved that while languages and borders may differ, the passion for agriculture, education, and hard work remains a universal bond.
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