As part of the Erasmus+ programme, an open lecture event within the Aula Aberta lecture series was held on 18 March 2026 at the partner institution ESTG Politécnico de Leiria in Portugal. The event was organized by the Department of Management and Economics of ESTG Politécnico de Leiria.

The lectures were delivered by Associate Professor Elena Širá and Associate Professor Mariana Dubravská from the Department of Economics and Economy, Faculty of Management, Economics and Business, University of Prešov.

The lectures focused on current macroeconomic issues and their practical application in assessing the economic development of countries. The first session addressed Gross Domestic Product (GDP), its importance as a measure of economic performance, and its role in international comparisons. Students had the opportunity to analyse selected economic indicators of Slovakia and Portugal and actively participate in discussions on the differences in the performance of the two economies.

The second part of the event (the second lecture block) focused on international economic relations and the balance of payments. The lecture introduced the fundamental principles governing international economic flows and, using the Slovak Republic as a case study, demonstrated their practical implications under current economic conditions. The subsequent discussion provided an opportunity for participants to exchange experiences and perspectives on the economic development of different countries.

The event received very positive feedback from both students and academic staff. The lectures contributed to the enhancement of students’ professional knowledge, supported the development of international academic cooperation, and further strengthened the partnership between Politécnico de Leiria and the University of Prešov. The Erasmus+ mobility also created opportunities for the exchange of teaching and research experience and promoted the internationalisation of higher education.