The first work environment-based training pilot project in Latvia has Concluded

BA School of Business and Finance and EY (formerly Ernst & young) have concluded the first work-based training pilot project in Latvia, within the framework of which students received practical training in the professional environment of EY Latvia during three months on audit, tax, compliance and sustainability activities.

The Ministry of Education and Science plans to integrate work-based training into study programmes in the coming years. The pilot project implemented by BA School of Business and Finance and EY Latvia was the first initiative of its kind in Latvia, which will provide useful experience in the development of similar future programmes.

“This pilot project is an important step towards developing high-profile professionals who would have already gained practical experience in a real everyday business environment during their training, working alongside industry experts. Such an approach allows the learning process and theory to be supplemented with the knowledge, skills and values that are needed in the professional environment right now, which are later necessary in the changing world of work,” says Diana Krisjane, EY’s Baltic states partner.

From left: Diāna Krišjāne (EY Partner in the Baltic States), Līga Peiseniece (Rector of the BA School of Business and Finance). Photo: EY Latvia

During the training, students spent one full work day each week for three months working at the EY Latvija office with different specialists of the fields. A total of at least 20 EY professionals worked with the students, bringing them into real terms of deadlines and presenting the necessary knowledge and challenges for each field.

“The purpose of our pilot project developed and implemented jointly with EY Latvia was to provide our students with knowledge and develop practical skills in the enterprise environment. Such an approach gives the student motivation for personal growth and an understanding of how companies in the industry operate. The lessons learnt from the cooperation will be valuable for the future implementation of the project, as well as for other enterprises and institutions of higher education in the implementation of work-based learning. For the Ministry of Education and Science, this experience will be valuable in preparing Cabinet of Ministers regulations,” says Dr. Liga Peiseniece, rector of the BA School of Business and Finance.