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Announcement of the VMU Agriculture Academy Employees’ Teaching and Learning Materials and Research Works Competitions, and the Initiative for Submitting and Granting Nominations

We invite employees of Vytautas Magnus University Agriculture Academy (VMU AA) to participate in the Teaching and Learning Materials and Research Works competitions, share their significant achievements with the community, and celebrate their accomplishments.

Awards for the competition winners will be presented during the ceremonial commemoration of the Day of the Restoration of the Independence of Lithuania, which will take place in the VMU AA Ceremonial Hall on March 10 at 13:00.

TEACHING AND LEARNING MATERIALS COMPETITION

The Teaching and Learning Materials (TLM) competition is organized to encourage VMU AA lecturers to share their experience in advanced teaching methods and the preparation and use of TLM, to accelerate the development and application of TLM and innovative teaching methodologies, and to motivate lecturers to create and improve TLM and apply them effectively in their pedagogical activities. VMU AA employees (authors) and their teams who have prepared new TLM and applied them in teaching VMU AA students are invited to participate.

The following may be submitted to the competition:

  • Methodological publications (textbooks, study books, lecture notes, laboratory and practical work descriptions, and other methodological publications exceeding 50 pages, published in print or electronic form);

  • Visual teaching aids (devices, tools, laboratory and demonstration stands, mock-ups, models, collections of studied objects, video recordings, poster sets, and other materials);

  • Study organization methods and other TLM (comprehensive methodological support for a course, implementation of distance learning, introduction of other innovative study methods, etc.).

Applications for the TLM competition may be submitted by VMU AA academic units or by the authors. Each application must include a recommendation from the academic unit, a copy of the TLM (or indication of its location), and a description including:

  • Title of the TLM;

  • Author information (name, faculty, institute, department, position, academic title and degree, phone number, email);

  • Purpose of the TLM (study programme, subject, subject topics);

  • Relevance (need, previous similar materials, etc.);

  • Methodological compatibility with independent studies (possibilities for active learning and innovative study methods using the TLM);

  • Innovation (novel ways of presenting study material) and scientific quality (use of the latest scientific information and tools, opportunities for student involvement in research);

  • Visual clarity of the knowledge presented and quality of the publication design;

  • Other advantages.

Documents for the competition must be submitted to the VMU AA Study Administration Coordinator, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Rasa Čingienė (rasa.cingiene@vdu.lt or room 229, central building), by February 25.

No more than three prizes will be awarded in each group. First-place winners will receive monetary awards, while second- and third-place winners will receive letters of appreciation.

For more information, contact Assoc. Prof. Dr. Rasa Čingienė: rasa.cingiene@vdu.lt, +370 682 22874.

RESEARCH WORKS COMPETITION

The Research Works (RW) competition is organized to encourage VMU AA lecturers, researchers, and doctoral students to conduct research and disseminate results in high-level international scientific journals or other publications, increase international competitiveness, and contribute to improving the scientific, social, and economic environment of VMU and the country. VMU AA lecturers, researchers, and doctoral students are invited to participate.

Submissions are accepted in the following categories:

  • Research groups category (2–4 authors; each publication must include at least two authors from the participating research group);

  • International researcher category (researcher collaborating with foreign researchers);

  • Young researcher, doctoral student, or their team category (researchers with a doctoral degree aged up to 40 by the application deadline).

Research output from the last two calendar years may be submitted, including:

  • Scientific monographs, monograph chapters, or research studies;

  • Patented scientific output; registered plant or animal varieties;

  • Scientific articles;

  • Oral presentations in plenary sessions of international scientific conferences (with the conference programme attached).

The following must be submitted:

  • A short description (up to one page) of the research work or collection, indicating the title, components, and key aspects meeting the competition criteria;

  • Information about the author(s) (name, position, academic degree, scientific achievements) and their contribution, assessed proportionally to the number of authors or according to a joint signed declaration.

Winners of last year’s RW competition are not eligible to participate.

Submissions are evaluated according to:

  • Originality, novelty, significance for further research development, international scope, and leadership in international research teams;

  • Practical value (with preference given if accompanied by an evaluation or reference from a business or public-sector organization);

  • Scope of scientific output (calculated according to type and author contribution; if no declaration is provided, contributions are considered equal);

  • Dissemination of research results in the media.

Documents must be submitted to the VMU AA Research Activity Coordinator, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Algis Kvaraciejus (algis.kvaraciejus@vdu.lt or room 226, central building) by February 25.

Up to five prizes will be awarded: up to three in the research groups category, and one each in the international researcher and young researcher/doctoral student categories.

For more information, contact Assoc. Prof. Dr. Algis Kvaraciejus: algis.kvaraciejus@vdu.lt, +370 37 752350.

NOMINATION PROCEDURE

To involve VMU AA employees (or groups), lecturers, scientists, researchers, doctoral students, and students in improving the quality of studies, research, and scientific services, creating a motivating work environment, and fostering culture and values, the following nominations will be awarded during the Independence Day commemoration:

  • Project of the Year – for a community member or team for a study, research, or science-communication project successfully implemented in the previous calendar year with significant regional, national, or international impact.

  • Ambitious Start of a Research Career – for students or academic community members without a doctoral degree for active research and achievements. May be awarded once every three years.

  • Employee of the Year – for a staff member not directly involved in studies or research, for significant initiatives, diligence, and loyalty. May be awarded once every three years.

  • Ambassador of the Year – National Partnership – for establishing and developing significant national cooperation with social or business partners. May be awarded once every three years.

  • Ambassador of the Year – International Partnership – for establishing and developing significant international cooperation. May be awarded once every three years.

  • Lecturer of the Year – for outstanding teaching results, including student satisfaction, innovative pedagogy, work with Erasmus+ students, development of teaching materials, partnerships, promotion of study programmes, and supervision of student research. May be awarded once every three years.

  • Student of the Year – for outstanding achievements in studies, research, organizational, or social activities. May be awarded once per study cycle.

Nominations must be submitted to the Deputy Chancellor of VMU AA, Dr. Laima Skauronė (laima.skaurone@vdu.lt or room 228, central building) by February 20.

Number of awards:

  • Project of the Year, Ambitious Career Start, Employee of the Year – one each;

  • Ambassador of the Year – two awards;

  • Lecturer of the Year, Student of the Year – four awards each.

For more information, contact Dr. Laima Skauronė: laima.skaurone@vdu.lt, +370 615 21559.

The Teaching and Learning Materials and Research Works competitions, as well as the nominations, are organized and awarded according to regulations approved by the VMU AA Chancellor’s orders of February 3, 2026 (No. ŽŪA-2026-8 and ŽŪA-2026-9) and February 5, 2026 (No. ŽŪA-2026-12).

Diplomas Awarded to Graduates of the Faculty of Bioeconomy Development at VMU Agriculture Academy: Entering a New Stage with Determination, Confidence, and Courage to Create Change

On January 30, the inspiring, growth-oriented, and effort-filled academic journey of graduates of the Faculty of Bioeconomy Development at Vytautas Magnus University Agriculture Academy (VMU AA) was crowned with a diploma award ceremony. During the celebration, professionals in their respective fields were sent off into a new stage of life – mature, responsible, and full of opportunities. Graduates received uplifting congratulatory messages, encouragement to pursue their goals, to adopt and initiate sustainable solutions, and to become creators of change not only in Lithuania but also around the world. The festive atmosphere was filled with smiles, tears of emotion, and sincere moments of pride that testified to the path already traveled and the new perspectives opening ahead.

Human Connection, Respect and Trust – the Foundation of Meaningful Action

VMU Rector Prof. Dr. Ineta Dabašinskienė, who addressed the graduates of the Faculty of Bioeconomy Development, emphasized that the university experience helps develop the ability to live and act amid uncertainty, make decisions without having all the answers, remain open to differing opinions, and at the same time take responsibility for one’s choices.

“Today, when the world is marked by tension, uncertainty, and the temptation of quick answers, it is especially important to preserve the ability to think slowly, act responsibly, and remember that human connection, respect, and trust remain the foundation of any meaningful action. Therefore, this day invites us not to rush forward, but to pause for a moment, to celebrate the path already taken, to thank those who were by our side, and to allow ourselves to feel the weight of this moment, which often becomes clear only later. Vytautas Magnus University remains your community, with which your connection will continue through people, ideas, and, we hope, joint initiatives. The university doors will always be open to you, because academic community does not end with a diploma,” said the Rector, wishing the graduates fair winds on their journey, reliable companions, and a bright horizon.

VMU Agriculture Academy Vice-Chancellor Assoc. Prof. Dr. Rytis Skominas congratulated the graduates, stating that they have proven that belief in oneself, consistent work, and collaboration lead to meaningful achievements.

“This special day marks a new beginning full of opportunities, choices, and lessons that foster growth. Dear graduates, walk through life guided by a compass of values. Respect for people, responsibility for the environment around us, honesty—let these become a strong and unshakable foundation in your personal and professional journey. Move forward with determination, confidence, and courage to create change! Lithuania and the world are waiting for creators of a sustainable future – share your knowledge and innovative ideas!” said Assoc. Prof. Dr. R. Skominas.

True Success is Accompanied by Effort

Celebrating this special day together with the graduates, VDU Agriculture Academy alumnus and Marketing Manager at “Scandagra,” Skomantas Rukuiža, encouraged them to take a breath and be proud of themselves.

“On my arm, I have a tattoo that says ‘This will not last forever.’ This phrase has two meanings. Joyful moments – like today– remind us that they will not last forever, so we must celebrate and appreciate what we have. On the other hand, when things do not go according to plan and difficulties arise – this will not last forever either,” said S. Rukuiža.

Addressing the graduates during the ceremony, Dean of the Faculty of Bioeconomy Development Prof. Dr. Bernardas Vaznonis encouraged the younger generation to never stop learning and improving.

“Your diplomas confirm that from today you are professionals in your chosen fields. I hope that the diploma you have earned will open doors to careers and to better and more interesting lives, and that your education will become a key to success. On the other hand, this diploma is only one successfully completed stage of life. For many bachelor’s students, it will open pathways to further master’s studies. You do not need to be perfect to begin master’s or doctoral studies, but you must begin in order to become better. In closing, I would like to wish you success. True success comes only when you do what you love and put in a great deal of effort. Do not limit your dreams and be brave in striving for new heights. And never stop learning—because life never stops teaching,” said the Dean.

Acquired Knowledge – a Source of Inspiration

VMU Student Union Academic Affairs Coordinator Solvita Ausiukaitytė noted that this special day symbolizes the boundary between a long, sometimes challenging academic journey and new, yet undiscovered opportunities.

“You have proven that you can do more than you sometimes believed yourselves capable of. Do not forget to return to your Alma Mater. Let your knowledge become not only a tool for personal success, but also a source of inspiration for others,” said S. Ausiukaitytė.

On behalf of the graduates, Logistics and Trade study program graduates Raminta Eklerytė and Luka Beraia expressed gratitude to lecturers and the entire faculty community for the knowledge, experiences, friendships, and constant support gained during their studies. Words of thanks were also extended to graduates’ families and friends – their support and motivation throughout the academic journey were an invaluable source of strength and inspiration, helping to overcome challenges and confidently step into a new stage of life.

PHOTO GALLERY

Student Registration into Study Subjects for Spring Semester

The first stage of the spring semester 2025/2026 registration for lectures, seminars and laboratory works is on 26-30 January. At this stage, the registration is open:

  • For full-time and part-time students of bachelor and integrated studies
  • For full-time and part-time students of master studies
  • For full-time students of professional studies
  • For part-time free-movers
  • For part-time exchange students

Enrolment will be performed online only, having connected to VMU Students’ Portal.

A username is: name.surname (lowercase, Latin alphabet letters only) and a password.

If a student has forgotten the password, they can set up a new one here. Instructions are available here.

Enrolment into study subjects

Study schedules

Graduation Ceremony of VMU Agriculture Academy

On January 30 at 11:00 a.m., Vytautas Magnus University Agriculture Academy (VMU AA) invites graduates, members of the Academy community, and guests to attend the diploma award ceremony of the Faculty of Bioeconomy Development.

The ceremonial event will take place in the Ceremonial Hall of the Central Building of VMU Agriculture Academy (Studentų street 11, Akademija, Kaunas District).

We would like to inform you that the event may be filmed and/or photographed, and you may appear in event photos or videos that could be published across various media platforms.

Second National Policy Dialogue in Lithuania Focuses on CAP Reform and Farmer Well-being

On 4 December 2025, the second National Policy Dialogue under the SafeHabitus project was held online via MS Teams. The event gathered representatives from key institutions, including the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Lithuania, the National Paying Agency, the Chamber of Agriculture, the Lithuanian Agricultural Advisory Service, Vytautas Magnus University, and farmer representatives.

The meeting focused on SafeHabitus national policy recommendations in the context of the forthcoming CAP reform. Participants discussed how stronger social conditionality under the new CAP will link compliance with labour and safety regulations to income support, increasing the relevance of occupational safety and health (OSH) at farm level. However, concerns were raised that progress on worker safety and compliance is impossible without robust training and advisory services — yet these measures remain financially unprotected in the new funding architecture and therefore at risk.

The dialogue also highlighted a significant gap in addressing farmer mental health. Despite rising stress and administrative pressures, there is no dedicated structure within national governance to monitor or support farmer well-being. Participants agreed that strengthening extension services, creating targeted OSH and mental health programmes, and clarifying social conditionality requirements will be essential for achieving CAP objectives and safeguarding farmers and workers in the next programming period.

The event concluded with a call to integrate SafeHabitus findings into national policy discussions, extension programmes, and future OSH initiatives to build a stronger safety culture and resilience across Lithuanian agriculture.

More information about the SafeHabitus project:
SafeHabitus is a four-year Horizon Europe project coordinated by TEAGASC Ireland, aiming to strengthen Farm Health and Safety Knowledge Innovation Systems and support the EU’s transition to social sustainability in farming.

SafeHabitus | Farm Health and Safety Knowledge Innovation Systems

Registration for the 5th International Scientific Conference “Sustainable Bioeconomy Development 2026: Theory and Practice” is now open

We are very pleased to invite you to the 5th International Scientific Conference “Sustainable Bioeconomy Development 2026: Theory and Practice”. The conference will take place online on 14 May 2026.

The conference is organised by the Faculty of Bioeconomy Development at the Agriculture Academy of Vytautas Magnus University. The conference will bring together researchers, practitioners and policymakers to discuss the latest trends, challenges and opportunities in the development of a sustainable and circular bioeconomy. In 2026, discussions at the conference will focus on key themes such as:

  • Policy, Governance and Investments for Sustainable Bioeconomy Development.
  • Innovations for Enhancing the Competitiveness and Circularity of Bioeconomy Sectors.
  • Growth Strategies and Circular Business Models in the Bioeconomy.
  • Sustainable Supply Chains in the Bioeconomy.
  • Sustainable Circular Bioeconomy in Rural and Regional Contexts.

Through these perspectives, the conference seeks to encourage interdisciplinary dialogue and inspire new insights for advancing a more sustainable and inclusive bioeconomy. The conference is dedicated to the social sciences in the field of bioeconomy.

Main deadlines:

31 March 2026 – registration deadline for oral and poster presentations (short description of the presentation required in registration, up to 100 words)

10 April 2026 – notification of presentation acceptance

22 April 2026 – poster presentations submission deadline

12 May 2026 – registration deadline for listeners

14 May 2026 – online conference date

More information

Online registration for the conference is open until 31 March 2026.

Free Online Webinar to Find Out How Businesses Can Prepare for the EU Deforestation Regulation

The EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) is transforming global supply chains by reshaping responsibility for product origin and setting new sustainability and transparency expectations. As businesses navigate these emerging obligations, the demand for reliable information and strategic planning is greater than ever.

The Vytautas Magnus University Agriculture Academy (VMU AA), Faculty of Bioeconomy Development keeps up to date with the latest sustainability and regulatory trends, including the upcoming EU Deforestation Regulation. Recognising the significant impact this regulation will have on global value chains, the VMU Agriculture Academy, Faculty of Bioeconomy Development aims to raise awareness and encourage informed discussion among businesses, students and the academic community.

The VMU Agriculture Academy, Faculty of Bioeconomy Development invited Mindaugas Ganusauskas, Business Development Manager at BM Certification Lietuva UAB, to share his insights and answer questions at an online webinar, helping participants to better understand how to prepare for the upcoming changes.

Date: 4 December 2025

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

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

Format: Online Webinar via TEAMS, free of charge.

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.

During the webinar, Mindaugas Ganusauskas (BM Certification Lietuva UAB) will explain what the EUDR will require from businesses, the main risks involved, and the practical tools and certification schemes needed to ensure compliance.

In the second part of the webinar, assoc. prof. dr. Erika Besusparienė will share how the MBA “Customs Process Management” offers a unique opportunity to deepen your knowledge and develop the skills required in today’s international trade environment. The MBA “Customs Process Management” brings together experts from academia and business to ensure learning is relevant, up to date and practical.

Admission is now open for international candidates for the 2026/27 academic year via the VMU DreamApply.

Join the online webinar, explore the MBA community, and become part of it!

VMU Agriculture Academy Autumn Intake 2026/2027 is open!

Would like to gain strong knowledge, solid skills, and invaluable international experience? Thinking about an unforgettable European student adventure and traveling the world?

Top-quality studies in a high-ranking university and living in Kaunas – located in the center of Europe – may be the perfect combination for You.

Your lifetime adventure can start now with Vytautas Magnus University (VMU) Agriculture Academy.

Application is open from November 1, 2025, for Autumn Intake 2026/2027 study programmes:

APPLY HERE -> vytautasmagnus.dreamapply.com

Application opens:

 November 3, 2025 – for MA programmes
December 1, 2025 – for BA programmes

Deadlines:

 For applicants from non EU/EFTA countries:
April 1, 2026 – for MA programmes
May 1, 2026 – for BA programmes 
For applicants from EU/EFTA countries and citizens of visa-free countries
(Please check here if you are not required to have a visa to enter Lithuania):
July 1, 2026 – for BA and MA programmes

List of all Vytautas Magnus EN study programmes:

 For a Bachelor’s degree > here
For a Master’s degree > here

Note (!) Diplomas may be added after application deadline.

Note (!) Preliminary studies start on August 24, 2026.

DETAILED INFORMATION:

Contact person: VMU Agriculture Academy International Coordinator Ekaterina Makrickiene ekaterina.makrickiene@vdu.lt, +370 37 752 386.

Lecture by Istanbul Technical University Professor M. Kaya “Innovation and Sustainable Bioengineering: The Future of Material Science and Perspectives in Agronomy and Biotechnology”

The community of Vytautas Magnus University Agriculture Academy (VMU AA) has a unique opportunity to attend a lecture by Professor Murat Kaya from Istanbul Technical University – one of the oldest and most prestigious technical universities in Europe.

Professor M. Kaya’s lecture “Innovation and Sustainable Bioengineering: The Future of Material Science and Perspectives in Agronomy and Biotechnology” will take place on:

  • October 31 (Friday) at 10:00 a.m., VMU Agriculture Academy Central Building, Room 524;

  • November 6 (Thursday) at 1:00 p.m., Central Building, Room 506;

  • November 7 (Friday) at 10:15 a.m., Central Building, Room 321.

Professor M. Kaya is an internationally recognized expert in innovative materials and sustainable engineering. His research focuses on the development and application of advanced materials in various fields, such as:

  • Agriculture – materials for soil improvement, plant protection, and sustainable farming;

  • Medicine – biomaterials and technologies for healthcare innovations;

  • Food preservation and packaging – next-generation materials that help maintain product quality and reduce waste.

During his lectures, Professor M. Kaya will share his expertise and insights on:

  • the latest trends in sustainable engineering and materials science;

  • practical examples of innovation implementation;

  • collaboration opportunities between universities, research centers, and industry.

We warmly invite students, lecturers, researchers, and everyone interested in innovation, sustainability, and modern technologies! Don’t miss the opportunity to hear inspiring insights from one of the leading professors of Istanbul Technical University!

Conference “Young Scientist 2026”

The 23rd annual conference of young scientists “Young Scientist 2026” organized by the Vytautas Magnus University Agriculture Academy (VMU AA) will be held on April 16 2026 remotely. The conference is intended for the first, second and third degree students. The purpose of the conference is to involve students in scientific activities, develop the ability to publicize scientific research results, present their scientific research achievements and discuss topical issues of bioeconomy, green course, climate change, ecosystem sustainability, rational use and protection of natural resources.

There is no conference fee for students. Certificates of conference participants will be awarded to the speakers of the conference.

Speakers will be able to publish articles in the collection of articles of the conference “Young Scientist 2026”.

Conference topics  

Subtopics

 
Bioeconomy Accounting and finance: challenges and opportunities
Bioeconomy, sustainability of agriculture and food sector
Innovations and solutions in business logistics
Management of agri-business and other bioeconomy business organizations
Sustainable development of rural areas
Biosystems engineering Energy engineering
Land management
Mechanical engineering
Technology engineering
Transport engineering
Water engineering
Sustainability of agricultural, forest, and water ecosystems Agronomy
Food quality and safety
Sustainability of agricultural ecosystems
Ecosystem services
Sustainable forestry
Wildlife population management

The electronic version of the article (Surname_Name.docx) must be submitted by email to the section coordinator (contacts listed in the GUIDELINES ON PUBLICATION OF THE ARTICLES BY THE CONFERENCE SPEAKERS) by 16 March 2026.

The articles must be prepared according to the recommendations for the authors of the articles (Article template, Authors guarantee letter).

Conference presentation template.

Pre-registration for the conference until February 10, 2026.