Vilnius University (VU) is approaching its 450th anniversary with a new strategic ambition – to strengthen the University’s leadership in the region.
On 21 January, the Vilnius University Council approved the new VU Strategy, which sets out to further consolidate the University’s position in the global research and higher education landscape, to foster national partnerships that contribute to Lithuania’s progress, and to remain an attractive place to work and study.
‘We operate in a context of complex and rapid change, global challenges, intensifying international competition, shifting demographic conditions, and dynamic technological development. At the same time, the expectations of society, business, and the State continue to grow, making it essential to define a clear direction and ambition. We seek to be an academic leader in the region and to play a meaningful role in Lithuanian society and the State by contributing to the creation of an advanced and resilient Lithuania, while at the same time expanding the boundaries of Europe’s intellectual horizons. The period of the VU 2030 Strategy coincides with a landmark date – the 450th anniversary of Vilnius University. We aim not only to commemorate this milestone appropriately but also to leave a sustainable legacy at the level of both the University and the State. This is an important opportunity to reaffirm and demonstrate the University’s role and impact on the State and its development,’ said VU Rector Rimvydas Petrauskas.
In pursuing the mission enshrined in the Statute – to serve as a centre of scholarly knowledge and critical thinking, recognised worldwide and shaping Lithuania – Vilnius University seeks to become a regional leader. The region is defined as economically, politically, and culturally close countries that became members of the European Union between 2004 and 2013.
‘The 450th anniversary is not merely a symbolic milestone – it is an opportunity to clearly define the role that Vilnius University seeks and is capable of fulfilling. Regional leadership entails responsibility: to attract talent, generate world‑class knowledge, and transform it into long‑term value for the State and society. Vilnius University has all the necessary academic strengths and institutional maturity to become the strongest university in the region. However, this will require consistent decisions, investment, and the ability to adapt. This Strategy clearly sets out the ambition that must now be implemented through concerted action,’ stated Chair of the VU Council Marius Jurgilas.
To strengthen the University’s role, international-level research competence and excellence centres will be expanded and new ones created, with the aim of attracting academic leaders and young talent. Another key direction of breakthrough will be the development of an effective research and innovation ecosystem, enabling the transfer of scientific knowledge and the advancement of high technologies.
The University’s contribution to society is most clearly reflected through its graduates who complete high‑quality study programmes. In this area, VU will strengthen higher-cycle study programmes and expand personalised learning and mentoring opportunities.
In pursuing its strategic goal to contribute to the strengthening of the State and society, VU will also assume the role of a national think tank. Its highest‑level expert competencies will be directed toward shaping proposals for public policy decisions and enhancing society’s resilience in the face of global change.
The new Vilnius University 2026–2030 strategy can be found here.