On September 1, the new KU Methodological STEAM Center’s Digital Transformation Laboratory opened its doors, and the development of the campus is gaining even more momentum. Various events took place throughout the day on KU campus, and the highlight of this year was a joint start for all Klaipėda students. Not only KU, but the entire Klaipėda higher education community was invited to užsiKUriam (Let’s Get Started) picnic marking the start of the academic year.
“Our 35th anniversary is not only a celebration, but also proof of our maturity and focused growth. The growing number of applicants and increasing interest in our study programs show that here, in Klaipėda, we offer what Lithuania needs most today: a solid combination of academic knowledge, modern practice, and international opportunities. We are consistently improving the quality of our studies and the impact of science on the region, while the expansion of the University’s infrastructure ensures better conditions for every student,” emphasizes Prof. Dr. Artūras Razbadauskas, KU Rector.
Studies and applicants
This year, Klaipeda University admitted 5% more students than last year, and this growth trend has been observed for four years in a row. Psychology, nursing, and computer science remain among the most popular study programs. In the field of engineering, electrical engineering studies attracted the most interest.
“Klaipeda University is growing steadily not only in terms of quantity, but also in terms of quality – every year we attract more and more strong, motivated students, among whom the number of those, who have achieved the highest state exam results, is increasing. In order to ensure high-quality studies, we systematically update the content of our study programs and expand international mobility opportunities – from student exchange programs to double degree programs. At the same time, we invest in the study infrastructure: we modernize laboratories, create modern learning spaces, and strengthen partnerships with the business and public sectors. Our promise to every student is solid academic preparation, relevant practical experience, and a focused path to a career that meets the needs of the modern job market,” emphasizes Assoc. Prof. Dr. Rasa Grigolienė, KU Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs.
The admission of foreign students is still ongoing, but it is already clear that most of them are choosing bachelor’s degrees in transport engineering, recreation and tourism, and master’s degrees in business management. About half of those admitted are students from Ukraine, and young people from Pakistan, Bangladesh, India, Morocco, Ghana, Cameroon, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Turkey, and Japan also come to study here.
“Health science programs also remain consistently popular. It is gratifying to see that KU students are attracted not only by practical programs that are in demand in the labor market, but also by a wider range of study options – from tourism to philology. The international diversity of our community enriches the study environment with new ideas, cultures, and opportunities for cooperation. The admission results show that our University is becoming increasingly visible in the international arena,” emphasizes Samanta Simonavičė, Head of KU International Relations Office.
Goal-oriented infrastructure development
KU is starting the new academic year by opening the Digital Transformation Laboratory at the Methodological STEAM Center, where students and teachers will be able to try out artificial intelligence tools and see how they can be used in teaching and practice.
“Digital transformation today is not just about implementing technology—it is a new way of thinking and creating. It opens up opportunities to explore, create, and learn in new ways, making it an integral part of modern science. The STEAM Center is a place, where science is inseparable from creativity. Digital transformation provides a space to experiment, learn interactively, and experience how technology connects with STEM disciplines, natural sciences, social sciences, and arts. By establishing this laboratory, we aim to create a space for young people that would encourage them to think more broadly and help them prepare for a future, where digital skills become an essential competence,” says Prof. Dr. Aelita Bredelytė, Director of KU Methodological STEAM Center.
With the number of students growing, the University consistently invests in residential and academic infrastructure. This year, construction of a modern dormitory has begun, with 194 places for students and 24 places for professors, with shared kitchens and recreation areas. On June 20, a time capsule was buried on KU campus symbolically marking the start of this project.
In the coming years, a new laboratory building will be built on KU campus, which will house a medical simulation center as well as engineering and biotechnology laboratories. It is planned that the Faculty of Marine Technologies and Natural Sciences will move here in 2027–2028.
All Klaipėda students were invited to celebrate together at užsiKUriam picnic in KU Botanical Garden
The start of this academic year celebration, užsiKUriam, was special. For the first time, not only KU, but the entire Klaipėda higher education community was invited to attend the celebration – leaders, students, alumni, professors, researchers, administrative staff, and others. This KU initiative aims to bring together the city’s higher education community to share positive emotions, future ambitions, knowledge, and strengthen cooperation.
The picnic took place in KU Botanical Garden – a green and cozy space. Participants enjoyed live music, trail orienteering competition, and other entertainment.
The highlight of the celebration was a concert by Antikvariniai Kašpirovskio dantys, followed by DJ music beats.
