VILNIUS TECH’s executives joined the ATHENA European University alliance partners in Lublin to launch a new phase for the ATHENA consortium. This milestone symbolizes a deepened commitment to collaboration, innovation, and excellence in education and research across Europe. Hosted at Maria Curie-Skłodowska University (UMCS) during its 80th anniversary celebrations, the event set the stage for the next chapter of ATHENA’s development.
 

The VILNIUS TECH delegation at the event was led by Rector Prof. Romualdas Kliukas. The team included key representatives: Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs Prof. Živilė Sederevičiūtė-Pačiauskienė, and ATHENA Steering Committee member Assoc. Prof. Asta Radzevičienė. During this landmark event, Prof. Kliukas participated in strategic discussions of the ATHENA Executive Board, focusing on establishing new governance structures and action groups to drive future initiatives. VILNIUS TECH will continue to play an important role in shaping the future of the consortium, and contributing with its expertise in research and international collaboration in ATHENA clusters and hubs – consolidated thematic groupings in the main areas of ATHENA’s collective expertise. Digitalisation for All, Sustainable Production, Health and Nutrition are the main domains for interdisciplinary cooperation and will be complemented by the new themes emerging from the clusters.
 

New Agreement Signed: A Commitment to ATHENA Alliance
 

A key highlight of the meeting was the signing of a new ATHENA Consortium agreement, with Prof. Romualdas Kliukas representing VILNIUS TECH. This agreement reflects continued dedication of all partners to the ATHENA alliance and further contribution to the development of the European educational and research landscape, by collaborating and consolidating efforts. Reflecting on the new phase, Prof. Romualdas Kliukas shared:
 

"As we embark on this new chapter, our primary focus is reinforcing our commitment to key research areas and strengthening collaboration across institutions. We will continue advancing ATHENA's hubs and clusters by integrating education, research, and innovation. The newly introduced governance structure will help us streamline alliance management and act more effectively to meet the evolving needs of the alliance, to consolidate ATHENA academic community and deliver real, impactful results. At VILNIUS TECH, we are dedicated to contributing to the European alliances movement with renewed energy."
 

Looking Ahead: A New Leadership Era for ATHENA
 

The event also marked a leadership transition within the consortium, with the University of Maribor assuming the presidency of ATHENA. The renewed governance structure will enable a more efficient and adaptable alliance, ensuring that ATHENA continues contributing to the forefront initiatives in European higher education and research.
 

Discussions on ATHENA’s activity plan for the coming year, which set the course for future actions, were at the center of the meeting. The renewed task forces will play a crucial role in ensuring that ATHENA continues to offer cutting-edge research and inclusive educational opportunities to students across Europe.
 

As ATHENA embarks on this new phase, its mission remains clear: to deliver high-quality, international education that addresses the most pressing needs of today’s globalized, digital economy. Stay tuned for further updates on VILNIUS TECH’s initiatives within the ATHENA European University alliance!


Initiative is funded by the Economic recovery and resilience plan "Next generation Lithuania" and the state budget of the Republic of Lithuania.