Universitas Mercatorum Associate Professor Visits SANGU as Part of Erasmus+ Staff Mobility

From October 5 to 10, 2026, St. Andrew Georgian University of the Patriarchate of Georgia hosted Maria Menshikova, Associate Professor at its Italian partner university, Universitas Mercatorum, within the framework of the Erasmus+ program. This was the University's first visit within the framework of Erasmus+ staff mobility.

The purpose of the visit was to share the experience of a European university in hybrid and online learning, as well as in the use of artificial intelligence and digital technologies in university management and teaching processes. Another objective was to further develop academic and scientific cooperation between the two universities.

The week-long visit included meetings and workshops for both administrative and academic staff, as well as a public lecture for students.

The working meeting for administrative staff focused on “Artificial Intelligence in University Administration and Organizational Processes.” The agenda covered the practical use of artificial intelligence in communication, quality assurance, project management, and human resource management. Particular attention was also given to Universitas Mercatorum's experience in e-learning, staff motivation, and organizational development.

The meeting for academic staff focused on the use of artificial intelligence in teaching and research, hybrid learning models, student engagement, and digital competencies. The program also included discussions on research ethics and the responsible use of artificial intelligence, as well as discussions with colleagues from relevant fields on future joint teaching and research interests and initiatives.

The concluding part of the visit included a public lecture for students and colleagues on the impact of digital transformation and artificial intelligence on organizations, higher education, and the skills required for the future.

During a meeting with the University leadership, the results of the visit were summarized and prospects for future cooperation in joint teaching and research were discussed.

Such visits contribute to deepening cooperation between partner universities, sharing experience, and developing joint educational and research initiatives.