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.

VMU Staff Teaching Week 2025

Vytautas Magnus University Agriculture Academy invites students and staff to participate in the VMU Staff Teaching Week 2025, which will take place from May 5th to 9th.

During this week, international teachers from partner universities across Europe and beyond will deliver lectures on a wide range of topics, including:

Modern agriculture and regenerative farming;
Bioeconomy and sustainable development;
Soil health and environmental management;
Food quality, safety, and waste reduction;
Energy efficiency, climate policy, and digital innovations in agriculture.

Lectures will be held at the VMU Agriculture Academy campus:

Central Building (Studentų str. 11);
II Building (Studentų str. 15);
III Building (Studentų str. 10).

The full lecture schedule, including topics, lecturers, times, and locations

This is an excellent opportunity to:

Broaden your academic knowledge;
Hear from international experts;
Engage in discussions on current issues and global perspectives.

Don’t miss out on this inspiring academic event!
We encourage all students and staff to join the lectures and be part of this international learning experience.

Organized by: VMU Agriculture Academy Faculty of Agronomy, Faculty of Bioeconomy Development, Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Forest Sciences and Ecology and Bioeconomy Research Centre of Excellence.

Postdoctoral internships at VMU AA: Call for applications for funding

The Research Council of Lithuania, promoting the development of the system of internships for young scientists after doctoral studies and raising the scientific qualifications of interns, announces a call for proposals for the projects of posdoctoral studies.

Vytautas Magnus University (VMU) Agriculture Academy invites applications for postdoctoral internships and do an internship at VMU AA in the fields of agriculture, life sciences, business and public management or engineering sciences. Applications for postdoctoral internships are submitted to the Research Council of Lithuania. Applications for postdoctoral internships are submitted until June 6, 4 p.m.

The purpose of postdoctoral fellowships is to promote the development of the system of postdoctoral internships for young scientists and to raise the scientific qualifications of interns (these projects must not aim to create specific products for the market and increase the scale of commercial and technology transfer).

According to this activity, a postdoctoral trainee is understood as a researcher who has a PhD degree awarded by a Lithuanian or foreign research and study institution, and for whom no more than 7 years have passed from the date of the award of the PhD degree to the date of submission of applications specified in the invitation and carrying out scientific research work provided for in the project. The intern must go to a foreign science and study institution or research center, laboratory, company, institution, library, archive, expedition, etc. for internship.

Online consultations

Research Council of Lithuania invites applicants to remote consultations by this schedule:

April 16th at 10:00 a.m. (Lithuanian) and 2:00 p.m. (English)
May 23rd at 10:00 a.m. (Lithuanian) and 2:00 p.m. (English)

Connection link is here. No advance registration required.

More information about postdoctoral fellowships at Research Council of Lithuania website.

Contact at Research Council of Lithuania:
Program co-ordinator Jogaila Mackevičius
jogaila.mackevicius@lmt.lt
+370 676 41 216

Contact at VMU Agriculture Academy:
Ingrida Ignotaitė
Tel. +370 37 752 377
E-mail ingrida.ignotaite@vdu.lt
Universiteto str. 8A, Akademija, LT-53341, Kaunas distr.

Information prepared based on: Postdoctoral Fellowships – Research Council of Lithuania.

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

Free Online Webinar “Sustainability & Careers in Customs and Trade”

Vytautas Magnus University Faculty of Bioeconomy Development invites you to join a free webinar on 8 April 2025, at 15:30 (EET, Lithuania time zone) to explore the importance of sustainability in international trade, focusing on the EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), customs process management and career development in the field.

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 EU CBAM: DRIVING SUSTAINABLE MANUFACTURING GLOBALLY (presenter Dr. Erika Besusparienė)
MBA ALUMNI: ON STUDIES AND MORE (presenter Gertrūda Bakšienė)
MBA CUSTOMS PROCESS MANAGEMENT (presenter Dr. Erika Besusparienė)

Moderator of the webinar Lecturer Kristina Gesevičienė.

Date: 8 April 2025

Time: 15:30 (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!

A dynamic Erasmus+ learning experience in Münster: artificial intelligence in everyday office life

From February 22–28, Dr. Laima Skauronė, Head of the Administration Group at Vytautas Magnus University Agriculture Academy (VMU AA), and Dr. Monika Medikienė, International Coordinator at VMU AA, participated in an Erasmus+ training visit at the European Institute for Academic and Professional Development (EIAPD) in Münster, Germany. Both representatives actively engaged in the training course titled “Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Everyday Office Life,” led by dr. Jan Schmidt, an AI professional with extensive experience in academic training and professional development. During the training, participants acquired a comprehensive and practical understanding of how AI transforms modern workplace processes.

The training course was meticulously designed to introduce participants to both foundational AI concepts and advanced applications in office environments. The structured sessions combined theoretical discussions with interactive, practical exercises, ensuring a well-rounded learning experience.

One of the key takeaways was the emphasis on learning new AI-related vocabulary, which set the stage for understanding complex concepts such as machine learning, neural networks, generative models, and large language models (LLMs). By defining these terms early in the program, we were able to engage with the material more effectively throughout the course.

A significant portion of the training focused on Generative AI, particularly text-to-text and text-to-image models. We explored how large language models (LLMs) function by predicting the likelihood of word sequences, ultimately enabling coherent and contextually relevant text generation. Similarly, text-to-image models leverage probabilistic algorithms to create high-quality visuals based on user prompts.

We discussed the evolution of LLMs, from early, rigid models to modern reasoning-based AI systems, which incorporate logical assessment before generating responses. This capability is crucial for ensuring accuracy and reducing AI-generated “hallucinations.”

AI Tools and Office Applications

One of the most exciting course components was an in-depth analysis of AI tools and their applications for automating office tasks. Various categories of AI tools were introduced and practically explored:

Multifunctional LLMs: Tools like ChatGPT (GPT-4, GPT-o1, GPT-o3 mini), Google Gemini, and Qwen 2.5 offer comprehensive text and image generation functionalities.

Basic Chatbots: AI models like Claude, LeChat, and DeepSeek provide efficient conversational interfaces with privacy-focused features.
Reasoning Models: AI tools designed for logic-based problem-solving, including ChatGPT-o1 and DeepSeek r.1.
Research-Oriented Models: Platforms such as Perplexity and Storm.ai, which enhance information retrieval and knowledge synthesis.
Text-to-Image and Text-to-Video Tools: DALL-E, Midjourney, Imagine (Google’s tool), Sora, and Qwen 2.5.
AI-integrated Office Solutions: Microsoft Copilot and Canva AI, which seamlessly integrate generative AI into productivity software.

These tools are reshaping workflows by automating repetitive tasks, enhancing decision-making, and improving content creation across various industries.

Mastering AI Prompting Techniques

Another core aspect of the training was AI prompting, which is essential for optimizing AI-generated responses. We practiced different prompting techniques, including:

Zero-shot, one-shot, and few-shot prompting – guiding AI with varying levels of example-based learning.
Chain-of-thought prompting – encouraging step-by-step reasoning in AI responses.
Instruction-based prompting – refining AI outputs through structured and precise instructions.
Role-prompting – directing AI to adopt specific personas for tailored outputs.
Meta-prompting – using AI to generate better AI prompts, enhancing efficiency and accuracy.

Understanding these techniques was invaluable in improving the accuracy, coherence, and usability of AI-generated content.

Challenges and Ethical Considerations

While AI provides remarkable benefits, the course also addressed its limitations and ethical challenges. Concerns such as bias in AI models, data privacy, and over-reliance on automation were discussed. Dr. Schmidt emphasized the importance of critically evaluating AI outputs to avoid misinformation and ethical pitfalls. This balanced approach reinforced the need for human oversight in AI applications.

Key Takeaways and Future Perspectives

The training experience was highly enriching and practical, equipping us with the knowledge and skills to integrate AI efficiently into office environments. As AI continues to evolve, professionals across various fields must adapt to emerging technologies to enhance productivity and decision-making processes.

One of the most valuable aspects of this Erasmus+ experience was the diverse perspectives of participants from various EU countries. Engaging in discussions, sharing insights, and collaborating on AI-related tasks fostered an interdisciplinary learning environment that extended beyond the classroom.

The “AI in Everyday Office Life” course was a transformative experience, shedding light on the numerous possibilities AI presents for office professionals. By understanding and applying AI strategically, organizations can streamline operations, enhance communication, and foster innovation.

Laima Skauronė and Monika Medikienė expressed their satisfaction with deepening their AI knowledge and their enthusiasm for applying it to future academic and professional projects. The Erasmus+ training visit to Münster reaffirmed that continuous learning is essential in the digital age.

Despite an intensive training schedule, participants also enjoyed discovering the charming city of Münster and its rich German cultural history. After training sessions, they explored the cozy old town, visited the city park by Lake Aa, St. Paul’s Cathedral, several impressive churches, the Bible Museum, and Münster University, located in a historic castle. The ongoing carnival celebrations, with vibrant masks and festivities, provided a unique and memorable atmosphere, allowing participants to experience authentic German traditions and spirit firsthand. This opportunity offered a deeper understanding of local history and integration into Münster’s cultural traditions.

International Expert Advisory Board Visits the Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies

On March 6-7, the International Expert Advisory Board visited the Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies (LBTU) to learn about the university’s latest developments and provide insights on past achievements and future initiatives. The board comprises representatives from various European universities with extensive experience and qualifications who are keenly interested in LBTU’s development.

LBTU rector Irina Arhipova emphasized: “The opportunity to present LBTU’s scientific work and infrastructure to the International Expert Advisory Board is part of the effective implementation of our research program, which contributes to achieving the university’s strategic goals. Scientific activity is an integral part of LBTU’s operations, and the evaluation and recommendations from international experts help elevate our research ambitions while opening new opportunities at the international level. Every such exchange of experience is valuable, as it allows us to introduce international experts to Latvia’s experience, achievements, and future research directions.”

As part of the visit, a panel discussion titled “Development Strategy and Possibilities of LBTU as a University of Sciences” was held. It focused on the progress of LBTU’s 2023–2027 development strategy implementation and provided recommendations on how the university can best present its achievements in the upcoming international evaluation of scientific institutes scheduled for this year.

Participants in the discussion included members of the International Expert Advisory Board, representatives of the LBTU Council, university administration and faculty members. The discussions explored ways to enhance LBTU’s competitiveness in the international arena, strengthen scientific capacity, and foster collaboration both within the university and with international partners.

Later in the day, the advisory board members engaged in discussions with faculty representatives on their development priorities and visited LBTU’s key scientific laboratories. During these visits, significant research achievements, development projects, and innovative solutions promoting science-industry collaboration were presented.

At the conclusion of the visit, experts summarized the discussions and provided key conclusions on LBTU’s development prospects, along with strategic recommendations for the university’s future growth. The experts highly appreciated LBTU’s progress in science and education and underscored the importance of continued international collaboration. Additionally, the board members learned about the history of Jelgava Palace, a significant cultural heritage site and LBTU’s central complex.

The International Expert Advisory Board is an independent body aimed at advising on LBTU’s research and development strategy. It enhances understanding of global research trends and provides guidance on attracting new partners for LBTU’s research projects and innovations.

The advisory board consists of 14 members from various countries, all highly qualified experts in their respective fields. Appointed for a three-year term, the current board includes experts from Lithuania, Germany, Finland, Estonia, Spain, Norway, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, Slovenia, Serbia, and Poland.

LBTU’s administration highly values the board’s expertise and looks forward to continued productive collaboration in strengthening the university’s development and international competitiveness.

Source of information

High Scientific Competence Centers Launched at Vytautas Magnus University for Bioeconomy Development and GDP Growth

Creating economic prosperity without compromising future generations is only achievable by developing bioeconomy based on sustainability and circular economy principles. In Lithuania, Vytautas Magnus University Agriculture Academy (VMU AA), which holds extensive experience and scientific potential in bioeconomy research, has taken the leadership role in promoting efficient use of biological resources. A significant new step in this direction is the establishment of two centers of high scientific competence: the Bioeconomy Excellence Centre (BioTec) and the Smart Forestry Excellence Centre. These centers aim to foster innovation, develop science-business partnerships, educate young scientists, enhance the university’s visibility, and strive for leadership in the Baltic region and across Europe.

Creating Added Value for Both the State and the Academy

The quality of research at VMU and other Lithuanian public universities is being enhanced through the “University Excellence Initiative” launched by the Ministry of Education, Science, and Sport in 2023. In 2023, €4 million was allocated, last year more than €13 million, and by 2027, a total of €57.5 million is planned.

“Universities themselves, knowing best their strengths and priorities, could decide where to invest these state-provided funds. VMU has decided to divide these funds to strengthen social sciences and bioeconomy,” said VMU AA Chancellor Prof. Dr. Astrida Miceikienė.

According to Prof. Miceikienė, identifying priority areas was straightforward for an institution celebrating 100 years of scientific tradition. Agronomy and environmental engineering emerged as critical for both international leadership and domestic bioeconomy stimulation, prompting the establishment of the Bioeconomy Research Centre of Excellence at VMU Agriculture Academy.

“VMU AA researchers have also achieved remarkable success in forestry research, collaborating with leading European science centers. Hence, we are establishing another center—the Smart Forestry Excellence Centre—funded not by the ministry’s initiative but by winning international competition through the HORIZON-WIDERA-2022 program, dedicated to creating and developing the ‘FOREST 4.0’ excellence center,” Prof. Miceikienė explained.

According to Prof. Miceikienė, these centers attract top scientists capable of innovative research. Modern infrastructure, equipment acquisition, and research funding are essential to these goals.

Chancellor of VMU Agriculture Academy, Prof. Dr. Astrida Miceikienė

“The centers aim to attract young researchers focused long-term on bioeconomy and forestry, alongside international experts, since Lithuania, being a small country, cannot maintain top experts in all fields,” she stated. These excellence centers generate value for both the state and VMU AA by enhancing researchers’ capabilities, promoting innovation, increasing academic publications, and training more graduate students. Innovations created by researchers can be commercialized, ultimately boosting GDP through increased tax revenues.

Positive Social and Economic Impact

According to Prof. Dr. Zita Kriaučiūnienė, head of VMU AA’s Bioeconomy Research Centre of Excellence, the center has already yielded results by acquiring advanced scientific equipment and software. Tools like “SimaPro” software enable comprehensive lifecycle assessments for agricultural systems, aiding sustainable agricultural decisions. Other innovations, like “LI-COR” portable gas analyzers and precision nitrogen fertilizer application technologies, significantly improve research quality in agronomy and environmental engineering.

Research topics include soil and plant health, climate change mitigation, and sustainable agrotechnologies. These studies aim to positively impact society and the economy by promoting agricultural sustainability and resilience against climate change.

Prof. Dr. Zita Kriaučiūnienė, head of VMU AA’s Bioeconomy Research Centre of Excellence

Prof. Dr. Zita Kriaučiūnienė highlighted numerous publications in prestigious scientific journals, active international conference participation, and collaborative projects, including “Holistic Assessment of Agroecological Measures” (2025-2028) and innovations for sustainable wheat production using advanced sensors and spectroscopy.

“VMU AA Bioeconomy Research Centre of Excellence actively promotes technology commercialization. The next step involves encouraging innovative bioeconomy ventures capable of creating high-value products,” summarized Prof. Dr. Zita Kriaučiūnienė.

Smart Forestry Excellence Centre – For a Data-Driven Future of the Forestry Sector

Smart Forestry Excellence Centre for Innovative Bioeconomy Under the HORIZON-WIDERA-2022 program, VMU AA, alongside European partners, is developing the “FOREST 4.0” project—a competence center applying AI and IoT in forestry. The project aims to enhance Lithuania’s bioeconomy leadership in Europe by digitalizing forestry operations and supporting informed decision-making.

Prof. Dr. Gintautas Mozgeris from the Department of Forestry and Ecology emphasizes that tools developed will provide comprehensive data on forest ecosystems, enable risk forecasting, and promote balanced resource management. The project also plans to implement greenhouse gas emission monitoring technologies to support carbon farming practices, ensuring effective management and carbon credit verification.

Head of the Department of Forest Sciences, Faculty of Forestry and Ecology, VMU Agriculture Academy, Prof. Dr. Gintautas Mozgeris

“It is particularly important to avoid practices where greenhouse gas (GHG) emitters purchase carbon credits that do not actually result in emission reductions or increased absorption. Through the ‘Forest 4.0’ project, it is planned to establish a GHG emission monitoring tower capable of capturing real-time data on greenhouse gas emissions within a radius of over 100 kilometers. Additionally, mobile equipment will be utilized to monitor long-term GHG balances, enabling analysis of how GHG balances change in different conditions such as clear-cut areas, restored forest wetlands, and more. Expanded scientific research will validate effective carbon farming methods, simultaneously reducing the risks and societal impacts associated with the increasingly prevalent practice of ‘greenwashing,’” summarized Prof. Dr. G. Mozgeris.

Ultimately, VMU AA’s advanced research initiatives in bioeconomy and forestry promise significant social and economic benefits, including increased national GDP and sustainable growth.

International scientific conference “Living Labs: Opening Innovation ecosystems for co-creation and greater impact”

On May 27, the National Living Labs Network (LLLNet), in collaboration with the Research Council of Lithuania, the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences (LSMU) and the Lithuanian Social Science Centre, invites you to the international scientific conference “Living Labs: Opening Innovation Ecosystems for Co-creation and Greater Impact”.

The conference will be held at the Faculty of Public Health of LSMU, Auditorium 101 (Tilžės street, 18, Kaunas, Lithuania).

Prof. Dr. Gediminas Brazaitis, Faculty of Forestry and Ecology, Department of Forest Sciences, Vytautas Magnus University Academy of Agriculture, will also deliver a presentation at the international scientific conference.

This is the first unique event in the region, accelerated by the newly launched LLLNet. “Living labs” are open innovation ecosystems in real environments, based on a systematic user co-creation method, according to which research and innovation activities are integrated into a community and/or multilateral environment, and citizens and/or end users are at the center of the innovation process.
The conference is intended to share the experiences of living labs that are already operating or will soon start operating in Lithuania and discuss them in broader scientific and practical discourses, reflecting the latest developments in innovation ecosystems achieved through co-creation.
This event is a unique platform where you can establish contacts, exchange good practices, collaborate on implemented and newly developed projects, discuss the latest trends on how to model the future with the help of living lab methodologies to achieve greater impact.
The conference will be held at the premises of LSMU, where several newly established living labs dedicated to health and public health care operate in Lithuania.
The conference will be held in English, live and remotely. The abstract of the presentation is up to 500 words; the abstract is prepared in English according to the attached template and sent by e-mail: asociacija@lllnet.lt. Abstracts will be reviewed by the conference scientific committee. Participation in the conference is free of charge.
Registration has begun!
Current dates:
Submission of abstracts: by March 31, 2025
Notification of abstract acceptance: by April 30, 2025
Conference registration: by May 15, 2025

In 2025, LLLNet was established – an association whose goal is to unite all living laboratories in the country. One of the first members of this association is also VMU Agriculture Academy Faculty of Agronomy junior m. d. Jovita Balandaitė.

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.