Meet Awol Kedir Jewaro, a PhD student from Ethiopia who stayed in Slovakia for four months. Awol is pursuing his doctoral studies at Suleyman Demirel University in Turkey. During his research mobility in Slovakia, supported by the National Scholarship Programme, he was hosted by the Technical University of Košice. There, he worked at the Faculty of Civil Engineering, Department of Environmental Engineering, under the supervision of Prof. Martina Zelenakova.

photo taken in KošiceHow has your time in Slovakia supported your research?
It has been a great opportunity to receive mentorship from world-class researchers in my field, particularly in water and environmental engineering (water pollution, water quality, wastewater, and climate change). I have been able to work closely with my principal advisor and other colleagues from the institute, collaborating on short-term and long-term projects regionally, across Europe, and beyond.

Could you describe your experience with your research team in Slovakia?
Research team in Slovakia welcomed me with huge smiles and a positive attitude, treating me not only as a guest but also as a friend and colleague. The guidance and collaboration from the principal advisor, co-advisor, and other colleagues have been impressive and very helpful. The support extended beyond academics is particularly appreciated.

What are the main differences between research in Slovakia and in your home country?
Here at TUKE, international researchers and professors work with other international reserchers on various fields of study, which fosters a strong collaborative environment.

What resources or support have you found particularly helpful for your research in Slovakia?
The research materials and supportive collegues.

Has your experience in Slovakia influenced your career plans for the future?
To some extent, yes. It has positively influenced my consideration of similar mobilities, research, and academic careers over non-academic careers, and has empowered me to consider opportunities from diverse regions

What motivated you to choose Slovakia for your research stay?
Securing a supervisor in a similar field of study. Slovakia's central location in Europe. The opportunity to experience a new cultural environment.

What has this scholarship experience provided for you, both professionally and personally?
Professionally: Increased participation in scientific projects, partnerships, and collaborations.
Personally: Enhanced networking opportunities, international exposure, career development, and cultural experiences.

Do you have any advice for future international researchers considering a stay in Slovakia?
It is important to prepare well in advance for the application process and to establish contact with potential collaborators early on.

networking meeting with international researchers in KošiceHave you participated in other international scholarship programmes before, and how does this one compare?
Yes, I have participated in other programmes. This one is better in some aspects, such as the well-planned application timeline, travel allowance, and health insurance. However, it may not be superior in every aspect.

How has your scholarship experience in Slovakia influenced your perspective on international research collaboration?
It has positively influenced my perspective, allowing me to meet excellent colleagues from interdisciplinary fields and international project leaders.

What differences have you noticed between Slovakia and your home country?
One aspect that I find unusual is that the libraries are only open during the day. While this is good to some extent as it allows students time for personal enjoyment, it may not be ideal for someone like me who spends most of his time in the library. Again Slovakia is very secure, calm, and everything is well-organized. I have not even seen a security personnel or police officer on the streets.

Are there any activities or places in Slovakia that you would recommend to others?
For those who love vibrant cities, Bratislava is ideal. For history enthusiasts, Košice is a must-visit. For nature lovers, the Tatra Mountains are perfect.

Which Slovak cities have you visited, and which did you enjoy the most?
I have visited Bratislava and enjoyed it the most.

How do you find Slovak language? Have you learned any Slovak words? Have you visited any language course? If yes, please specify.
The Slovak language is a bit unusual with its additional alphabets, but it has an interesting history and culture. I have learned some daily greeting words such as "Dobrý deň" (Good day), "dovidenia" (Goodbye), and "dakujem" (Thank you). Yes, I have attended a Slovak language course at TUKE every Friday, which is offered to international students who wish to learn Slovak.

Have you faced any difficulties in your daily life in Slovakia?
No, not really. However, one day I boarded the wrong bus, which took me elsewhere. I couldn't explain to the driver, and the bus only stopped along its route at the final destination which further far from my way. Fortunately, someone on the bus helped me.

Do you have any favorite spots here? Could you share your recommendations?
The historic places within the Kosice city are wonderful. The parks located beside the city center are great for bringing nature into the urban environment.

in front of my host universityHow have you found Slovak people? Are they welcoming and helpful to you as an international researcher, or did you face any challenges?
They are highly welcoming people. The only problem is the language barrier.

What surprised you the most about Slovakia? Did you experience any culture shock?
The daily working hours start so early, around 6 AM. Classes and even shops open early, which is different from what I am used to. In Turkey, universities typically start at 9 AM, while malls and public shopping centers open at 10 AM. Conversely, in Slovakia, these establishments open early in the morning, around 6.30 am to 7:45 AM.

How do you like Slovak cuisine? What is your favorite Slovak dish, if you’ve tried any?
I think it is one of the best cuisines. For example, Cesnačka v bochníku (Slovak soup in a bread bowl) and Bryndzove halusky (potato dumplings with cheese) are wonderful.

What advice would you give to other international researchers for adapting to life in Slovakia?
To learn the Slovak language and to have a Slovak colleague who can better guide them.