Free Online Webinar “Customs knowledge today – why is it not just for customs officers?”

Customs has long gone beyond filing declarations. Today, knowledge of customs, trade rules, and regulations is required by IT professionals, logistics, businesspeople, financiers, and even lawyers. Customs knowledge can be acquired at Vytautas Magnus University Agriculture Academy Faculty of Bioeconomy Development by choosing the MBA programme Customs Process Management, which meets the requirements of the EU customs competences.

Vytautas Magnus University Faculty of Bioeconomy Development invites you to join a free online webinar on 22 May 2025, at 15:30 (EET, Lithuania time zone) to explore the importance of customs knowledge.

What will be discussed in the webinar?

The importance of customs today.
Labour market needs for customs knowledge.
MBA Customs Process Management.

The webinar will be presented by dr. Erika Besusparienė, Chair of the MBA Customs Process Management Committee.

Information of webinar:

Date: 22 May 2025

Time: 15:30 (EET, Lithuania time zone)

The planned duration of the webinar will be approximately one hour.

Format: Online Webinar via MS TEAMS

Language: The webinar is held in English.

REGISTRATION

The link to join the MS TEAMS platform before the webinar will be sent to the email address provided during registration.

Seminar “The Well-being of Farmers and Agricultural Workers: Experiences, Perspectives, Challenges”

On 28 March 2025, during the international agricultural exhibition “Ką pasėsi… 2025”, the SafeHabitus project hosted a seminar titled “The Well-being of Farmers and Agricultural Workers: Experiences, Perspectives, Challenges.”

The seminar presented insights into the well-being and quality of life of farmers in different countries participating in the SafeHabitus project. It also discussed the findings of a scientific literature review on the social protection of farmers and agricultural workers. A discussion was held on social security in agriculture, financial instability, the specifics of agricultural work, existing risks, and public attitudes toward agricultural workers. The seminar was attended by farmers, representatives from the Agriculture Academy of Vytautas Magnus University, the Lithuanian Agricultural Advisory Service, the National Paying Agency, and other organizations interested in the well-being of those working in agriculture.

Media contact: National CoP representative – Anastasija Novikova (Lithuania), anastasija.novikova@vdu.lt

More information:

SafeHabitus project is a four-year project coordinated by TEAGASC Ireland, funded by the European Union as part of the Horizon Europe Programme, grant agreement number 101084270. This multi-actor project aims to strengthen Farm Health and Safety Knowledge Innovation Systems (FHS KIS) and support the EU transition to social sustainability in farming.

Admission to PhD studies at VMU Agriculture Academy 2025

Vytautas Magnus University (VMU) Agriculture Academy offers doctoral studies in 8 fields of research in natural, social, technological and agricultural sciences.

Application for admission to doctoral studies is carried online.

Research Area	Research field	Dates of receipt of documents
Natural sciences	Ecology and Environmental Science	03 06 2025 – 22 08 2025
Technological sciences	Environmental Engineering	05 06 2025 – 20 06 2025 (no later than 5 p.m.) 01 04 2025 – 15 04 2025 (no later than 5 p.m.)*
	Mechanical Engineering	05 06 2025 – 20 06 2025 (no later than 5 p.m.) 01 04 2025 – 15 04 2025 (no later than 5 p.m.)*
	Transport Engineering	–
Agricultural sciences	Agronomy	05 06 2025 – 31 07 2025
Agricultural sciences	Forestry	05 06 2025 – 31 07 2025
Social sciences	Economy	–
Social sciences	Management	–

*Submission of documents for the recognition of qualification obtained abroad in Lithuania (for those applicants who have obtained their education at a foreign higher education institution and do not have a document confirming the recognition of their diploma in Lithuania).

The application for participation in the admission to doctoral studies and scanned copies of the necessary documents are provided online online registration.

The application will be registered, when will be filled all necessary parts of Admission to doctoral studies online system epasirasymas.vdu.lt.

The application is considered not to be registered if all the necessary documents or information is not provided.

More information about the admission, dissertation topics, candidates for scientific supervisors and document forms.

More information:

Universiteto st. 8A – 202, LT-53341 Akademija, Kaunas district.
Phone +370 37 752 254
E-mail: monika.brimaite@vdu.lt
Web-page: https://zua.vdu.lt/en/

Universiteto st. 8A – 219, LT-53341 Akademija, Kaunas district.
Phone +370 37 209 815
E-mail: doktorantura@vdu.lt
Web-page: vdu.lt/phd

Visit to the Medininkai Border: valuable insights into customs operations for customs and logistics students

On March 6, 2025, students of MBA Customs Process Management, Master of Business Logistics and Bachelor of Logistics and Commerce visited the border queuing terminal at the Medininkai border operated by UAB “Durga”. During the visit, the social partners gave an overview of the development of Lithuanian customs from the country’s independence until today. The students were accompanied by their teachers assoc. prof. dr. Erika Besusparienė, assoc. prof. dr. Milita Vienažindienė and lect. Kristina Gesevičienė.

The representatives of UAB “Durga” presented the history of the company since its establishment in 1994 and discussed the development of customs procedures after Lithuania regained its independence. The social partners gave an insight into the first customs posts, their activities and cargo movement control. Students learned how customs procedures have changed over three decades, influenced by technological advances and shifts in international trade.

The visit also covered the current organization of the movement of cargo vehicles through the Medininkai border post. A key role in this process is played by the truck queuing terminal at Medininkai, which helps regulate the flow of traffic, ensures smooth and efficient cargo inspections and reduces congestion at the border.

Jonas Aleksonis, a representative of UAB “Durga” and a graduate of the MBA Customs Process Management, presented how the company incorporates sustainability principles. To improve working conditions for truck drivers, the terminal offers showers, gym equipment, a cafeteria and a shop. In addition, local rural communities provide catering services, allowing drivers to enjoy quality meals while supporting the local economy.

Environmental sustainability is another priority for the company. To minimize environmental impact, oil pollutants are collected in a special oil product trap. Up to 10 tons of pollutants are removed from the terminal each year, contributing to a cleaner environment and sustainable business practices.

The visit to the Medininkai border terminal provided the students with both theoretical knowledge and first-hand experience of how the customs and logistics sectors operate. Such cooperation with social partners is crucial for the younger generation, helping them to acquire practical skills and understand the complexities of logistics and customs operations in a real working environment.

On their way back, the students also visited the Medininkai Memorial to honor the Lithuanian border guards who tragically lost their lives, reflecting on this significant event in the country’s history. Their journey then continued to the historic Medininkai Castle, one of Lithuania’s oldest and best-preserved defensive castles dating back to the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. The students were fascinated to learn about the castle’s role during the reign of Vytautas Magnus and its importance in national defense. This visit not only enriched their historical knowledge, but also provided a deeper appreciation of Lithuania’s cultural heritage.

First National Policy Dialogue in Lithuania

The first “National Policy Dialogue” event of the “SafeHabitus” project took place remotely on 27 February 2025. It focused on discussions with representatives involved in shaping the working environment for farmers and agricultural workers.

The event aimed to identify and analyse national/regional policy and governance systems, and related institutions, stakeholders, and actors involved in shaping the working environment for farmers and agricultural workers.

Various aspects of the farm health and safety system were presented during the event, and discussions were held regarding the diverse actors shaping this system. Key issues in existing health and safety policies within agriculture were highlighted, along with opportunities for improvement. During the event, the priority needs of Lithuanian agriculture were discussed in relation to the well-being of farmers and agricultural workers. The discussion included representatives of Vytautas Magnus University Agriculture Academy, the Lithuanian Agricultural Advisory Service, the Chamber of Agriculture of Lithuania, the National Paying Agency, the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Lithuania, local municipalities, and the Farmers’ Union.

“SafeHabitus” is a multifactor project aimed at enhancing knowledge of farm health and safety, innovating systems, and supporting the EU’s transition towards social sustainability in agriculture. The project employs new methods and a collaborative approach to promote safer farming practices across the EU.

Media contact: National CoP representative Anastasija Novikova (Lithuania) anastasija.novikova@vdu.lt

More information:

About SafeHabitus:
SafeHabitus project is a four-year project coordinated by TEAGASC Ireland, funded by the European Union as part of the Horizon Europe Programme, grant agreement number 101084270. This multi-actor project aims to strengthen Farm Health and Safety Knowledge Innovation Systems (FHS KIS) and support the EU transition to social sustainability in farming.

The Commemoration of the Restoration of Lithuania’s Independence Day at VMU Agriculture Academy in 2025

On March 12th, the annual and increasingly traditional event organized by Vytautas Magnus University Agriculture Academy will commemorate the Restoration of Lithuania’s Independence Day. During the event, members of VMU Agriculture Academy community will be honored with awards for their achievements in 2024, and live music performances will be presented.

Event date and time: March 12th at 13:00
Event location: the Hall of VMU Agriculture Academy central building (Studentų str. 11, Akademija, Kaunas distr.)
Expected event duration: ~2 hours.

REGISTRATION FOR EVENT PARTICIPANTS IS REQUIRED

During the event, awardees of the nominations and the winners of the Methodological Tools for Studies and Scientific Works competitions will be honored.

MORE INFORMATION

Please note that photographs will be taken during the event, and you may appear in event photos or videos that could be published in various media outlets.

Saliamonas Banaitis Scholarship Competition Announced

On the occasion of February 16th, the Restoration of the State of Lithuania, Vytautas Magnus University (VMU) announces the Saliamonas Banaitis Scholarship competition. S. Banaitis (1866–1933) was a public and state figure of Independent Lithuania, a member of the Council of Lithuania, a signatory of the Act of Independence of the Republic of Lithuania, and a former VMU student. Applications for the scholarship are open until another significant day for Lithuania—March 11th (inclusive), the Day of Restoration of Independence of Lithuania.

Saliamonas Banaitis scholarship was established at the University in 2016 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the restoration of Lithuanian statehood by his grandchildren living in Canada. The scholarship aims to support and encourage the most talented students at the University conducting research related to personalities, organizations, events, or processes of the First Independent Republic of Lithuania (1918-1940), which in one way or another are connected with the activities and environment of the signatory of the Act, S. Banaitis.

In this context, a thematic competition is being launched for students at all levels who are writing a thesis or carrying out research on one or more of the themes indicated by the founder of the scholarship:

History of Lithuania relating to the activities, professional interests, or achievements of Saliamonas Banaitis, his family, or relatives.
Lithuanian culture (art) related to the activities, professional interests, or achievements of S. Banaitis, his family, or relatives.
transportation of goods or people by land and water (priority is given if there is any connection with S. Banaitis, his family, or relatives).
communication, publishing, and dissemination (priority is given if there is any connection with S. Banaitis, his family, or relatives).
the family economy and its development (priority is given if there is any connection with S. Banaitis, his family, or relatives).
amateur, village (barn) theatre or folk music (priority is given if there is any connection with S. Banaitis, his family, or relatives).

The scholarship in the name of S. Banaitis, signatory of the Act of Independence of the Republic of Lithuania, with a preliminary amount of ~ 2,200 EUR (up to half of the amount of the scholarship, i.e. ~ 1,100 EUR if the scholarship is awarded to two persons), will be given to the student(s) who is/are most relevant to the field of study, and who is/are intending to have his/her/their research published.

The decision to award the scholarship is made by the Lithuanian Canadian Foundation (LCF), with which VMU has concluded a cooperation agreement, according to which the nominal S. Banaitis Scholarship is awarded to the best students at the University whose studies and/or research interest is related to the history, culture, and achievements of Lithuania. Priority is given to students who are interested in the activities, professional interests, or achievements of Saliamonas Banaitis, his family, or relatives, thus encouraging students to achieve professional and academic excellence.

Students who are willing to apply for S. Banaitis scholarship must complete an electronic application form in Student portal until March 11^th. How to do this?

log in to the VMU Student portal using your personal login provided by the University.
select the Applications in the menu box and click on the Requests.
select the application category Finances and Scholarships and other support, click Nominal scholarship (form F-005), complete the form, justifying the area of study or research interest in the priority list of topics above and indicating its relevance: identification of work in progress, etc. and submit it.

The candidate(s) selected by the Foundation’s founder will be personally informed by the end of May of the conditions and deadlines for awarding the scholarship.

For more information on the scholarship and its award, please contact:

VMU Agriculture Academy Career Day 2025 “A Career That Changes the World is in Your Hands”

Vytautas Magnus University (VMU) Agriculture Academy invites students, high school seniors, graduates, and other interested parties to participate in the VMU Agriculture Academy Career Day 2025 “A Career That Changes the World is in Your Hands” on February 26, from 13:00 to 15:00.

Event participants will be invited to a fair/live meetings and discussions with leaders in the agro-sector about progress and innovation, challenges and opportunities, the competencies needed by professionals, and future perspectives.

Innovations drive progress and inspire the creation of an ecological, green, and sustainable future for our children. Smart technologies, innovations, robotics, artificial intelligence, and intelligent solutions in the agro-sector are no longer the future, but the present. The creation of advanced solutions and process management requires highly skilled professionals who are experts in their field. Leaders in the agricultural sector will share their experiences at the fair, discussing progress, innovation, challenges, opportunities, competencies for professionals, and future perspectives. Representatives from companies will attend the event in person to meet with VMU Agriculture Academy students.

During VDU ŽŪA Career Day’25, there will be a game called “Meetings That Pay Off,” where participants will have the opportunity to win exciting prizes.

Professionals from fields such as agribusiness, engineering, agronomy, forestry, food industry, finance, and smart technologies, who need representatives from various VMU Agriculture Academy study programs, will provide valuable advice and insights to students aiming to realize themselves professionally, high school students making decisions about their career paths, and other interested parties who wish to learn about the progress in the agro-sector and the unlimited opportunities it offers.

The event will be beneficial for students looking to understand which competencies are most important in today’s and the future job market, seeking internships or job offers, looking for new ideas for their final thesis topics, familiarizing themselves with the progress, innovations, and work culture of agro-sector companies and institutions, as well as high school students interested in future job market trends, the demand for specialists, promising VDU Agricultural Academy study programs and specialties, and career opportunities in the modern agro-sector, as well as other interested parties wanting to learn about the agro-sector’s progress, job market trends, and limitless career opportunities.

The event will take place at VMU Agriculture Academy Central Building, 5th floor (Studentų St. 11, Akademija, Kaunas District).

Please be informed that the event may be filmed and/or photographed, and you may be visible in event photos or videos that could be published in various media outlets.

Free Online Webinar “Customs Duties and Their Impact on Global Trade Dynamics”

VMU Agriculture Academy Faculty of Bioeconomy Development invites you to join a free webinar on 20 February 2025, at 15:00 (EET, Lithuania time zone) to explore the importance of customs duties in global trade and stay updated on the latest regulatory changes.

You will also find out why it is worth joining the MBA programme “Customs Process Management”. The application for foreign candidates is already open at vytautasmagnus.dreamapply.com. MBA “Customs Process Management” has received a positive decision for the EU Customs Recognition Certificate and is awaiting the official certificate. This means that you will be able to hold a Master’s degree from an EU-certified MBA programme, which will have a positive impact on your career.

What to expect in a webinar?

The MBA students Mantas Rimašauskas & Donatas Butrimas will share their insights on the situation of car imports in the EU.
Partnership assoc. prof. Anthony Buckley will discuss how the new US import tariffs pose a challenge to trading partners.
The Head of the Committee assoc. prof. dr. Erika Besusparienė will present the MBA “Customs Process Management“.
Live question and answer session with speakers.

Date: 20 February 2025

Time: 15:00 (EET, Lithuania time zone) The planned duration of the webinar will be approximately one hour.

Format: Online Webinar via TEAMS

Language: The webinar is held in English.

REGISTRATION

The link to join the TEAMS platform before the webinar will be sent to the email address provided during registration.

Join, explore, and become part of the MBA community!