On April 10-11, the University of Latvia (UL) will host the European University Association (EUA) Annual Conference, bringing together more than 300 higher education leaders and experts from across Europe. The conference will focus on the role of sustainability and resilience in university operations and their contribution to societal development.
The conference theme, "Building Bridges Between Sustainability and Resilience," will address key issues in the strategic development of universities today. EUA President Josep Maria Garrell, UL Rector Professor Gundars Bērziņš, and Latvia's Minister of Education and Science, Anda Čakša, will highlight these topics in the opening session.
"Sustainability at the University of Latvia is not just a goal—it is the foundation of innovation, education, and development. We create an environment where science, society, and sustainability converge, turning our university into a living laboratory for a greener future. From sustainable architecture and smart energy management to student initiatives and urban green projects, we don’t just teach sustainability—we practice it. We are proud to host such a significant European event at the University of Latvia’s Academic Center, a next-generation smart student campus. As Latvia’s leading university in sustainability, we hope to inspire Europe with our example while also learning new ways to enhance our efforts for a greener future," says UL Rector Professor Gundars Bērziņš.
Key Topics and Discussions
The thematic sessions will explore the role of universities in promoting sustainable development and their ability to adapt to contemporary challenges. Discussions will cover topics such as:
- Funding for sustainability initiatives
- Digitalization in higher education
- Knowledge security
- Creating inclusive academic environments
A special focus will be placed on the implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The conference will bring together European higher education leaders, policymakers, researchers, and experts. It will be held at the UL House of Science in Riga, Jelgavas Street 3. Participants will have the opportunity to share experiences and build collaboration networks to develop sustainable and resilient higher education systems across Europe.
Early registration is open until February 24, with final registration closing on March 24. More details on the conference program and registration can be found on the official conference website.
Pre-Conference Event on April 9
A day before the main conference, on April 9, a special event on sustainability in higher education will be hosted by the European University Alliance FORTHEM at the UL Conference Hall (Oskara Kalpaka Blvd. 4, Riga). This platform will bring together university vice-rectors, sustainability managers, experts, and other stakeholders to discuss innovations in sustainability, including:
- Green travel
- Sustainable event management
- Creating inclusive academic environments
Participants are encouraged to share experiences and strategies for building more resilient and sustainable academic communities.
About the University of Latvia
The University of Latvia has consistently been Latvia’s leading and most influential national university. As the largest multidisciplinary university in Latvia, it plays a crucial role not only in the development of the education system but also in the country's overall economic growth.
Currently, the UL Academic Center is being developed in Torņakalns, set to become one of the most modern student and research centers in Northern Europe. The center already houses the House of Nature and the House of Science, with the House of Letters set to open soon.
