For the first time ever EHU has established an informal group of supporters of the University’s mission among the members of the Seimas. Total of 13 members of Lithuania’s Seimas were invited to extend their commitment in supporting EHU’s promoted ideas of democracy and liberal education. On February 13 the following members of the Seimas attended the meeting:
- Dr. Egidijus Vareikis, Deputy Chairman of the Seimas Foreign Affairs Committee
- Andrius Kubilius, Deputy Chairman of the Seimas European Affairs Committee
- Dr. Mantas Adomėnas, Deputy Chairman of the Seimas Education and Culture Committee
- Gintaras Steponavičius, Deputy Elder of the Seimas Liberals’ Movement group
During the first meeting of “EHU Seimas friends” EHU leadership, represented by President Prof. Anatoli Mikhailov, Acting Rector Jørgen Jørgensen, and Member of the EHU Governing Board Ambassador-at-Large for Eastern Neighborhood Jonas Paslauskas, has presented the progress of ongoing processes of enhancing University’s operations, strategic management, budgetary and planning processes.
The University leadership together with the members of the Seimas recognized the importance of strengthening ties between EHU academic community and its Lithuanian counterparts, as well as governmental structures. EHU is anticipated to play even a more significant role Lithuania’s higher education area through academic cooperation and sharing its know-how in the field of liberal arts and sciences.
The members of the Seimas assured EHU leadership that it can count on the parliamentary dimension of assistance to EHU. The members of “EHU Seimas friends” group are expected to attend EHU Donors Conference, taking place on April 19.
According to the former Prime Minister (2008-2012) and current Deputy Chairman of the Seimas European Affairs Committee Andrius Kubilius: “We recognize the utmost importance of EHU for the democratic future of Belarus, and therefore are fully committed to assist University in its enhancement of studies and operations. EHU’s expected relocation to the new premises in Vilnius Old Town will encourage University’s further development and we are looking forward to it”.
“EHU Seimas friends” group, accompanied by the Friends of EHU, Inc. will work on ensuring EHU’s outreach to key stakeholders in EHU donors countries and raising the awareness about EHU mission and activities.