On November 21, the University of Latvia (UL) ceremoniously opened its new clinical study base at Pauls Stradiņš Clinical University Hospital (PSCUH). This facility will provide modern study and research spaces for students and faculty members of UL's Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences (FMLS). Over 2 million euros have been invested in the renovation of the historic building designed by Reinhold Georg Schmeling.
“One of the key factors for success is collaboration. It is collaboration, not competition, that plays a crucial role in our daily lives, in our social, professional, and higher education environments. I am pleased that the clinical study base at UL in PSCUH is exactly this kind of example, focused on a single goal: to promote the development of high-quality medical education and science in Latvia,” emphasized the Minister for Education and Science, Anda Čakša.
As noted by UL Rector, Professor Gundars Bērziņš, UL hopes that the invested funds will result in the preparation of many talented healthcare professionals, ensuring a healthy and sustainable future for Latvia.
Health Minister Hosams Abu Meri, the FMLS leadership, representatives of Stradiņš Hospital, and the event's host – UL professor and cardiologist at Stradiņš Hospital, Andrejs Ērglis, also gave opening remarks to the students and UL faculty who will study and teach in the newly renovated building.
The newly opened study center will significantly improve clinical training for about 420 students in the FMLS's medical programs, who are gaining practical work skills in healthcare institutions. The clinical study base will also be used by more than 450 nursing students.
Given the growing demand for qualified specialists and the increasing popularity of medical programs, it is predicted that in the next five years, the number of students in the medical field will increase by 30%, which will require even more expansive and modern teaching facilities.
The project was implemented by reconstructing the 10th building of PSCUH – a historic structure designed by the renowned Riga architect Reinhold Georg Schmeling (1840–1917), known for his red brick architectural style, visible in many school, hospital, and cultural institution projects in Riga. While preserving the building’s historical significance, the renovation included major repairs, such as roof restoration, installation of new engineering systems, and a complete interior renovation, including infrastructure for people with mobility impairments. The total cost of the project is 2.11 million euros, with 1.4 million euros funded by UL and an additional 0.79 million euros from the European Regional Development Fund.
UL Development Strategy and Need for Clinical Training
UL's long-term development projects include the creation of study and research bases in all clinical university hospitals in Latvia to ensure high-quality medical education, which will significantly improve the accessibility and quality of specialists in Latvia's healthcare system. Work is also underway to create similar clinical bases at Riga Eastern Clinical University Hospital and the Children's Clinical University Hospital.