IVSA Latvia
Booklet
Aerial view of Jelgava Palace and the city of Jelgava

4th European Regional IVSA Symposium

Rooted in History, Guided by Science.

May 1-5, 2026 in Jelgava, Latvia. An international gathering of veterinary students from across Europe, hosted by IVSA Latvia.

Event informationSymposium Instagram
DateMay 1-5, 2026
LocationJelgava, Latvia
Participants16 MOs / 17 countries

Official delegate information for the 4th IVSA European Regional Symposium.

View full booklet

Contents

Everything delegates need before arriving in Jelgava.

This page mirrors the booklet content in a browsable website format.

  1. 01Opening Messages
  2. 02Event Information
  3. 03Participating Countries
  4. 04Event OC
  5. 05Code of Conduct
  6. 06Core Panel
  7. 07About Latvia
  8. 08Accommodation
  9. 09Itinerary
  10. 10Events & Activities
  11. 11What To Bring
  12. 12About us - IVSA Latvia
  13. 13Sponsors & Partners
  14. 14Contact Info

Opening messages

Welcome to the Europe Region's annual gathering.

Dear Delegate

Welcome to the 4th European Regional IVSA Symposium, an annual gathering where Member Organizations meet, exchange ideas, and build lasting connections across the region.

This year, IVSA Latvia welcomes delegates to Jelgava for a symposium shaped by Latvian culture and veterinary science.

Use these days to step outside your comfort zone, participate actively, and create friendships that continue beyond the event.

Eirini Polygerou, Europe Regional Representative 2025/26

Dear Delegates

Welcome to Jelgava for the 4th IVSA European Regional Symposium, hosted under the theme "Rooted in History, Guided by Science."

The programme connects veterinary heritage with scientific progress through lectures, workshops, meetings, cultural events, and professional exchange.

Our goal is to create an experience that is academically useful, personally memorable, and full of meaningful connections.

Violet Adeline Wierbos, OC President of the 4th IVSA European Regional Symposium

Event information

IVSA 4th European Regional Symposium in Latvia.

The event takes place from May 1st arrival to May 5th departure at the Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine.

Jelgava, LatviaMay 1-5, 2026
00Days
00Hours
00Minutes
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Join veterinary students from across Europe for an unforgettable experience of science, culture, and connection.

View bookletSee itinerary
Official booklet4th European Regional IVSA Symposium

Program, speakers, logistics, accommodation, activities, and delegate guidelines.

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Event

IVSA 4th European Regional Symposium in Latvia.

Dates

May 1st arrival to May 5th departure, 2026.

Venue

Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Jelgava.

Goal

Promote collaboration, exchange best practices, and deepen awareness of animal health across different contexts.

Theme

Rooted in History, Guided by Science!

Delegate fee

EUR145 including accommodation, catering, and activities.

Alnis

The moose is the symbol of the region, guiding the way.

Akas zīme

Latvian symbol of the sun and earth. Represents experience and knowledge, unity and world order.

Tree roots

Indicative of the theme and the historical foundations guiding scientific progress.

Participating countries

16 IVSA National Member Organisations.

Delegates from 17 countries will gather in Jelgava, making this a truly international regional symposium and a chance to exchange veterinary knowledge across cultures.

Event OC

Our Organising Committee

Meet the team behind the 4th IVSA European Regional Symposium. Our priority is to ensure that your time here is enjoyable and comfortable from start to finish. If you have questions or concerns during the event, approach us at any time.

Violet Adeline WierbosOC President
Alberts Mārtiņš GrīnsEvent / Activities Manager
Anete PaukšteDelegate Affairs
Evija MedvedevaEvent / Activities Manager
Nikola AuzāneDelegate Affairs
Beāte Beta MakovskaExternal Relations
Kristīna Kalugina-DzeneTreasurer
Diāna JēkabsonePublic Relations Coordinator
Valerija BrobovaEducational Program
Anastasija LabašinskaStanding Committees and Networks Manager
Katrīna DzeneGraphics Manager
Razin RafiqEducational Program

Code of conduct

Respectful, inclusive, and safe for every delegate.

We expect every delegate to help keep the event inclusive, tolerant, respectful, and safe.

Please familiarise yourself with the IVSA Code of Conduct, which applies to all IVSA events. In short, each person is required and expected to take responsibility for their actions and act respectfully, with dignity, and with consideration for each other.

Full code in booklet

Behaviour parameters

  • Create a comfortable, positive, and safe environment for all participants.
  • Be in accordance with the principles and values of IVSA.
  • Apply respectful behaviour at events, exchanges, online platforms, and IVSA-funded opportunities.
  • Take responsibility for your actions and treat others with dignity.

Consequences may include

  • An official warning
  • Removal from the event or opportunity
  • Ban from participation in future IVSA events or opportunities
  • Ban or suspension from IVSA

Core panel

Complaint review and event protocol panel.

If a delegate violates the code of conduct, a core panel will assess the complaint or situation, examine the allegations and violations, and give a final decision according to protocol.

Alberts Mārtiņš GrīnsOC Event Manager / IVSA Latvia Vice President
Ana ŽivkovićSecretary DAD and Treasurer
Ömer Faruk DerenSecretary MOD
Eirini PolygerouEurope Regional Representative
Tamy Valeria Negrón GarcíaIVSA President
Kristīna Kalugina-DzeneOC and IVSA Latvia Treasurer
Nikola AuzāneOC Delegate Affairs / IVSA Latvia Secretary
Beāte Beta MakovskaOC External Relations / IVSA Latvia President

About Latvia

The hidden pearl of the Baltics.

Latvia

  • Population: 1.8 million.
  • Currency: Euro (EUR).
  • Language: Latvian, with English widely spoken.
  • Time Zone: GMT +3.
  • Capital city: Riga.
  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Stunning landscapes, beaches, forests and historic sites.
  • Small in size, big in charm.

University

  • Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies (LBTU).
  • Founded in 1863.
  • Jelgava Palace, Jelgava, Latvia.
  • Faculties include Veterinary Medicine, Agriculture, Food Technology, Environmental Sciences, Engineering, IT, Economics, and Social Development.
  • Scientific research, academic and professional education, and sustainable development.

Veterinary Medicine Faculty

  • Established in 1919 in Jelgava.
  • Only veterinary qualification programme in Latvia.
  • EAEVE approved.
  • Institutes include LBTU Veterinary Clinic, Small Animal Shelter, and Clinical Research Centre.

Language Basics

YesJā
NoNē
Thank youPaldies
CheersPriekā
How are you?Kā iet?
GoodLabi
Good morningLabrīt
Good dayLabdien
Good eveningLabvakar
Good nightAr labu nakti

Language

  • Official language: Latvian.
  • English is commonly spoken in larger cities and tourist areas, especially by younger people.
  • Latvian phrases can be helpful for communication in smaller towns.

Payment & Currency

  • The official currency of Latvia is the Euro (EUR).
  • Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it is useful to have cash for small transactions.
  • ATMs are widely available, and currency exchange offices offer competitive rates.

Electrical Outlet

  • Voltage: 230 V.
  • Frequency: 50 Hz.
  • Plug types: Type C and Type F, standard European two-pin plugs.
  • If you are coming from most European countries, your plugs will work without an adapter.

Emergency numbers

  • General Emergency, Police, Fire, Ambulance: 112.
  • Police non-life-threatening line: 110.
  • Ambulance direct line for critical medical emergencies: 113.
  • Gas emergency for suspected gas leak: 114.
  • Tourist police in Riga: +371 67181818.

Sim cards

  • You can get a digital eSIM.
  • For a physical SIM card, go to Narvesen, Rimi, Maxima, or official operator stores such as LMT, Tele2, or Bite.
  • Local prepaid cards cost about EUR5-EUR10.
  • Tourist SIM cards usually include 10GB+ of data and unlimited local calls for a week.

Weather

  • Daytime highs usually average around 15°C to 17°C, while nights remain chilly, often dipping to 7°C or 8°C.
  • Expect a mix of clear, sunny skies and overcast periods.
  • Showers are common but often brief, with roughly a 20% to 25% chance of rain on any given day.
  • Days are very long, with sunrise around 5:00 AM and sunset near 9:30 PM.

Travel and local rules

Transport, public laws, emergency numbers, weather, and connectivity.

Public Laws

  • Smoking is restricted near public buildings, transport stops, hotels, cafes, restaurants, bars, dorms, and other marked areas.
  • Alcohol sales are limited to 10:00-20:00 Monday-Saturday and 10:00-18:00 on Sundays.
  • Public drinking and carrying open alcohol containers in public spaces is illegal.
  • Driving BAC limits are 0.05% for experienced drivers and 0.02% for drivers licensed under 2 years.
  • You must be 20 to buy or possess tobacco, herbal smoking products, or vapes.
  • Drugs are illegal in Latvia, with strict penalties for possession and distribution.
  • Service and guide dogs need visible identification, assistance documentation, and an EU Pet Passport with valid rabies vaccination.

Transport info: car

  • Good road links from neighbouring countries; EU driving rules apply.
  • Watch for potholes, wildlife at dusk or dawn, and fast overtaking.
  • Free parking is available at Hotel Zemgale and near the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine.
  • Riga parking is mostly paid; hazard-light blinks can mean thank you.

Transport info: plane

  • Riga International Airport (RIX) connects with major European hubs.
  • From the airport, take bus No. 22 to 13. janvāra iela, then walk to the central train or bus station.
  • Trains and buses to Jelgava usually depart every 30-60 minutes.
  • A once-daily FlixBus can take delegates directly from the airport to Jelgava Railway Station.

Transport info: international bus

  • FlixBus and Ecolines connect Latvia with the rest of Europe.
  • Direct or connecting buses are available from Vilnius, Kaunas, Tallinn, Warsaw, Berlin, Hamburg, Prague, and other cities.

Transport info: bus from Riga to Jelgava

  • Buses depart from Riga International Coach Terminal, Rīgas SAO.
  • They run often, usually every 15-20 minutes, and take around 50-55 minutes.
  • Tickets are available at the station or from the driver.

Transport info: train from Riga to Jelgava

  • The train is the most reliable and affordable option from Riga to Jelgava.
  • Trains run every 30-60 minutes from Riga Central Station and take about 45 minutes.
  • Tickets are available at the station, on board for a small extra fee, or through Vivi Latvija; one way is usually EUR2.80.

Accommodation

Hotel Zemgale and the 9th Student Dormitory.

Zemgale Hotel

A 3-star hotel beside Jelgava's Olympic Sports Center, offering practical rooms, breakfast, Wi-Fi, leisure facilities, and a bowling alley.

Skautu iela 2, Jelgava.
9th Student Dormitory

A dormitory near the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine with block-style rooms, shared facilities, and floor kitchens. Late arrivals should notify the administrator.

Kristapa Helmaņa iela 2, Jelgava.

Accommodation Rules

  • No smoking inside, on balconies, or by windowsills; smoke at least 10 meters from entrances.
  • No open flames or unapproved high-powered heaters.
  • Quiet hours start after 23:00.

Itinerary

Five days of meetings, science, culture, and connection.

Day 001.05.2026

Arrival in Jelgava and check-in to accommodations

Welcome dinner and ice breakers

Free time

Day 102.05.2026

Breakfast

Opening Ceremony

Regional Meeting 1

Lunch

Faculty tour

Regional Meeting 2

Free time

Silent Auction

Cultural evening + international stands

Free time

Day 203.05.2026

Breakfast

Jelgava City Tour

Workshops

Lunch

Lectures, workshops

Sponsor talks / exhibition

Dinner

Latvian evening programme and free time

Day 304.05.2026

Breakfast

IVSA SC/N workshops

Regional Meeting 3

Lunch

European MOs meeting

Lectures / workshops

Dinner

Free time

White T-shirt party

Free time

Day 405.05.2026

Breakfast

Optional lecture

Departures

Riga city tour, not included in fee

Events & Activities

Regional meetings, city tours, faculty visits, workshops, and cultural events.

Regional Meeting

Delegates introduce their MOs, share experiences, ask questions, hear candidate presentations for next year's symposium, and vote.

MO Meeting

A focused space for attending MOs to discuss challenges, strengthen communication with IVSA Global, and connect with each other.

Cultural Evening

Delegates share national food, drinks, clothing, flags, traditions, and cultural performances.

Faculty Tour

A guided visit through LBTU's veterinary faculty, museum spaces, clinics, and research environment.

Silent Auction

Delegates donate items from their countries and bid during the event, with profits supporting the IVSA Development Fund.

White T-shirt Party

Wear a white T-shirt for signatures and messages, or bring a notebook if you prefer.

Sightseeing / City Tour

Explore Jelgava Palace, Pasta Island, Holy Trinity Church Tower, and landmarks from the city's history as the City of Students.

Scientific Programme

Lectures, Committees & Networks activities, and hands-on workshops across veterinary medicine.

What to bring

Documents, event materials, clothing, and personal essentials.

Travel documents

  • Valid passport or ID card.
  • Travel insurance, EHIC, or a copy of any other insurance.
  • Student ID or ISIC student card for student discounts.
  • If you need an invitation letter for visa purposes, contact us.
  • Non-Schengen country delegates should check the need for Electronic Travel Declaration.

Needed items for official events

  • Regional meeting: at least one electronic device with internet access or Wi-Fi connectivity per MO.
  • Cultural evening: food and drinks representing your country, national attire or clothing, and your country's flag.
  • Silent auction: items for the auction.
  • White T-shirt Party: white T-shirt and pens for writing on clothes.

Clothes and personal items

  • Raincoat or umbrella.
  • Shoes for walking.
  • Comfortable clothing.
  • Toiletries.
  • Personal medications, with prescription if needed.
  • Check the local weather before packing. May is generally mild and pleasant but can also be cool and rainy.

About us - IVSA Latvia

Local member organisation of IVSA Global.

IVSA Latvia is the local member organisation of IVSA Global, connecting veterinary students locally and internationally.

Re-established in 2018, it now brings together around 40-50 active Latvian and international veterinary students each year.

IVSA Latvia board

The team creating opportunities and representing Latvia internationally.

President

Leads the organization and represents IVSA Latvia internationally.

Vice President

Supports internal coordination and team management.

Secretary

Handles communication and documentation.

Treasurer

Manages finances and funding.

Exchange Officer

Organizes international exchange programs.

Event Coordinator

Plans and executes local and international events.

Public Relations Officer

Manages social media and outreach.

Sponsors & Partners

Thank you to the organisations supporting the symposium.

Official sponsors and partners featured in the delegate booklet.

Contact info

We look forward to welcoming you to Jelgava and meeting you soon.

oc4theuroperegionalsymposium.lv@gmail.comivsalatvia@ivsamo.org@4th_ivsaeuropeansymposium_lv@ivsalatvia