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Prof. Jovan Despotovic, Ph.D., Professor at the Faculty of Civil Engineering, University of Belgrade, came to the Faculty of Water Sciences (FWS) of the Ludovika University of Public Service, on 17 March, in the framework of the Ludovika Scholars Program (LSP). On the first day of the visit, the Professor took part in the programs organized by the Regional Cooperation Department, and during lunch with Rector Dr. Gergely Deli, he had the opportunity to have an introductory talk with the leadership of LUDOVIKA UPS. The evening ended with a gala dinner, which further deepened the working relationship between the colleagues of the LUPS and Prof. Jovan Despotovic, Ph.D.
On the second day of the visit, he continued with a series of activities related to the engineering training at the FWS in Baja. Prof. Ph.D. Jovan Despotovic visited the infrastructure of the Faculty, the teaching facilities for water technology processes, the laboratories and the measuring equipment park and had professional discussions with colleagues of the FWS.
Afterwards, Professor Jovan Despotovic gave a fascinating lecture entitled "Certain chapters of the integrated river and flood management" for the students, researchers, and lecturers of the Zsuffa István Student’s Club, which was received with great interest by the audience.
During the workshop, the Professor's vast experience and many years of practice proved very appealing to all the participants; the students interactively joined the workshop and engaged in a professional discussion with the Professor, first of all, on the issue of water sharing.
In his presentation, the Professor gave an overview of how water use in Europe is divided between agriculture, urban, rural, and industrial sectors. He identified agriculture as a significant user, consuming 70% of water resources.
The expert explained how integrated water resources management works in an urban context, including the use of resources and the role of drainage systems and water treatment plants.
Jovan Despotovic also discussed how water use and wastewater discharge affect the environment and wildlife. He added how effective the existing regulatory measures and restrictions are.
In his lecture, the Professor also discussed the potential of integrated water management, such as rainwater harvesting, wastewater recycling and reuse.
The lecture also gave an insight into UNESCO's International Hydrological Programme.
The second day of the visit continued with the World Water Day event, where the Professor joined the "Walk for Water" program for World Water Day. The afternoon program included a public lecture on "Transboundary cooperation in water management." Afterwards the Professor had the opportunity to meet and have a specific discussion with prominent lecturers and researchers from the Faculty of Water Sciences.
He visited some of Baja's professionally important and prominent landmarks at the end of the visit.
The visit of Prof. Jovan Despotovic, PhD, was of great importance to the Faculty of Water Sciences. His professional preparedness, competence, and helpfulness are exemplary, and the further cross-border cooperation with Professor Jovan Despotovic and the University of Belgrade has excellent potential for the internationalization strategy of the FWS.
Text and Photos: FWS