Photo: Toms Grīnbergs, UL Communication Department

On April 10 and 11, the University of Latvia (UL) will host the annual conference of the European University Association (EUA), bringing together more than 300 higher education leaders and experts from across Europe, who will jointly discuss the meaning of sustainability and resilience in the operation of universities and their role in advancement of society.

The theme of 2025 EUA Annual Conference, “Connecting the dots on sustainability and resilience”, will encompass issues that are currently essential for the strategic development of every university. They will be outlined at the opening by EUA President Josep Maria Garrell, Rector of the University of Latvia Gundars Bērziņš, and Republic of Latvia Minister of Education and Science Anda Čakša.

“Sustainability at the University of Latvia is not just a declared end in itself – it is the foundation for innovation, education and development. We create an environment where science, society and sustainability meet, making our University a living laboratory for a greener future. From sustainable architecture and smart energy management to student initiatives and urban green projects – we not only teach about sustainability, but also put it into practice. We are proud to host this European-scale event at the University of Latvia Academic Centre, which is the next generation smart student campus. As the leading higher education institution in sustainability issues in Latvia, we hope to inspire Europe with our example at this conference, as well as gain new knowledge on how to make our efforts for a greener future even more effective,” says Professor Gundars Bērziņš, UL Rector.

In thematic sessions, participants will analyse the role of higher education institutions in promoting sustainable development and their ability to adapt to contemporary challenges. In discussions, participants will address topics such as financing, digitalization, knowledge security, and creating an inclusive academic environment, with a special focus on the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. 

The conference will bring together European higher education leaders, policymakers, researchers and experts; it will take place at the UL House of Science in Riga, Jelgavas iela 3. Participants will have an opportunity to share experiences and build networks to jointly ensure headway for sustainable and resilient higher education systems in Europe.

Early registration for the event is open until February 24; registration will close on March 24. More information about the conference programme and registration is available on the conference website.

The day before the conference, on April 9, an event organized by FORTHEM Alliance, a network of nine multidisciplinary public research universities, dedicated to sustainability in higher education, will take place at the UL Conference Hall at Oskara Kalpaka bulvāris 4.

This discussion and collaboration platform will call together university vice-rectors, sustainability development managers, experts and other interested parties to discuss innovations in the field of sustainability, including green travel, sustainable events and creation of an inclusive environment. Participants are invited to share their experiences and strategies for creating a more sustainable academic environment.

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