“At first, Kaunas felt calm but a bit reserved,” recalls Zimbabwean Tatenda Mawango, who recently received his master’s diploma from Kaunas University of Technology (KTU). That first impression stayed throughout his six years in Lithuania – but its meaning changed.
Tatenda came to Lithuania without a detailed plan for the future. Relatives had recommended the country, and Kaunas stood out as a practical choice – student-friendly, affordable, and easy to navigate. The city’s compact layout and slower pace gradually became part of his daily routine.
Reflecting on his first months in Lithuania, Tatenda says the differences were noticeable from the start. “Kaunas and Lithuania looked calm, and a bit reserved compared to bigger or warmer cities, and both the weather and the communication style felt quite different at first,” recalls Tatenda.
With time, that first impression shifted. “I grew to appreciate how safe, comfortable, and easy Kaunas is as a place to live and study. The quieter atmosphere became a strength, because it helps you focus while still having enough things to do when you want a break,” he adds.
That sense of ease carried over into his studies as well. Tatenda completed his Bachelor’s in Informatics first, gradually realising which direction suited him best. Many of his projects naturally moved towards data-focused topics, making the decision to continue with a Master’s in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence feel like a natural continuation.
“What fascinates me most is how this study programme combines math, programming, and real-world impact – good models can genuinely help organisations make smarter decisions,” Tatenda says. Seeing how these tools are applied in practice, not just in theory, confirmed that this was the path he wanted to follow.
Now, as a graduate, he highlights the learning environment as an important part of his experience.
“The lecturers were supportive, and classmates were always willing to help each other,” he notes. That atmosphere made it easier to ask questions, exchange ideas, and stay motivated throughout his studies.
As for what comes next, Tatenda plans to apply for a PhD while gaining work experience directly related to data science and artificial intelligence. He hopes to start his career in Lithuania, where the tech and AI ecosystem is growing, while remaining open to opportunities across Europe.
Want your studies to lead to real change? Applications for Autumn 2026 at KTU are open. Find your programme.
