The Department of Development Studies at Palacky University in Olomouc is one of the first academic institutions in the Czech Republic to focus on the topic of international development. Although this dynamically progressing study program is commonly offered in most western universities, development studies in the Czech Republic is slowly emerging. Therefore the study program cannot draw on its historical experience but can only learn from abroad.
The Conference "Development Studies in Europe" organised on 26th – 28th February 2008 by the Department of Development Studies at Faculty of Science, Palacky University in Olomouc focused mainly on sharing experience and cooperation in the area of development studies among European universities.
The representatives of 14 European universities introduced their development studies programs and discussed the possibilities offered to students in the areas of research and practical experience. Furthermore the participants presented their views on what should be the core content of development studies and to what extent it is necessary to have a solid background in one of the traditional disciplines. Discussions also concentrated on cooperation with other institutions such as non-governmental organizations, development agencies or research institutes.
On the last day of the conference the representatives discussed the possibilities of cooperation between the participating institutions. Although “western” universities tent to be hesitant to establish strong links of cooperation with their “eastern” partners, all parties agreed that cooperation is desirable in order to support the stabilization of development studies in the Central European region.
All participants agreed that the conference provided a good ground for discussions about the role and direction of development studies in Europe. The conference was supported by the European Social Fund and the State budget of the Czech Republic.
Information provided by Petra Krylova, ARPOK (Agency for Development Assistance and Humanitarian Aid of Olomouc Region), Czech Republic
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