How did the British Embassy see us? World-class sport science facilities and educational and research excellence.
Kate Davenport, Deputy Head of Mission at the British Embassy in Prague, recently visited the Faculty of Physical Culture at Palacký University together with her colleague Otakar Fojta. The afternoon was spent at the BALUO Application Centre, where they met with colleagues from the Faculty and learned more about what we do in the fields of international cooperation, research and physical activity.
The visit began with an informal meeting with representatives of the FTK International Office, led by Vice-Dean for International Relations Michal Kudláček. Over coffee, they discussed international cooperation and current developments in the Erasmus+ programme, including the UK's return and what this could mean for cooperation with British universities.
The conversation then moved towards the Faculty's research activities. Vice-Dean for Research František Chmelík introduced Kate to the Faculty's research focus and areas of expertise, while Zdeněk Svoboda took her through the laboratories and gave her a closer look at the research carried out at FTK.
There was also plenty to see beyond the laboratories. Kate explored the BALUO facilities, including the pool, movement and TRX studios and other sports spaces, and learned more about the courses and other activities taking place there. The visit gave her a chance to see how research, sport and practical activities come together under one roof at BALUO.
Reflecting on the visit, Kate Davenport and Otakar Fojt said: “Thank you for showing us around your world-class sport science facilities and for describing your educational and research excellence. Your faculty should be a good partner for British sport science centres, and as the United Kingdom joins Erasmus+ in January 2027, you have an excellent opportunity to build new links with your British counterparts. All the best.”
The visit was a chance to show Kate Davenport a closer look at the range of activities taking place at the Faculty and created space for discussions about research and international cooperation and future connections between FTK and the UK.
