Last week the agreement of strategic collaboration between Kaunas University of Technology (KTU) and Vilnius University (VU) was signed. “Trying to achieve results on your own takes a lot of time and effort, and the solutions for improving the quality of higher education in Lithuania are needed now. We need internationally competitive universities today. We are convinced that only by maintaining similar position towards the most important issues we can be heard by our society and by our government”, said Petras Baršauskas, the KTU’s Rector.
The Rectors of both universities said that the need to collaborate has emerged while considering the impact research, studies, new technologies and innovation have on the development of Lithuania. Having in mind KTU’s and VU’s influence on society, and the extent of reforms in both universities, the decision to cooperate was made, aiming to achieve more progressive society, integration and expansion of research, improving the quality of studies and better management of universities’ resources.
“Our universities are working hard on implementing strategic aims, which will allow us to reach international standards in studies and research, and will create the future based on innovation in our country. By working together, by exchanging our experiences we hope to achieve a breakthrough in higher education system and the development of the State”, said Artūras Žukauskas, VU Rector.
The two largest Lithuanian universities will approach Lithuanian State institutions suggesting reforms in study system, offering possible joint study organising projects, extending possibilities of doctoral and post-doctoral studies.
Also KTU and VU will collaborate more closely on creating research production, on implementing joint projects, on exchanging and systemising research and technological information and on encouraging participation in international networking.
The Rectors expect that this initiative, based on good will and accountability towards society will bear fruits on political level as well.
