On 17 June, a graduation ceremony for graduates of the Vilnius University Life Sciences Center (VU LSC) took place at St. Johns’ Church. During the celebration, Bachelor’s and Master’s diplomas were awarded to nearly 300 young life sciences specialists.
Graduates, their families, and members of the academic community were welcomed by VU Vice-Rector Dr Artūras Vasiliauskas, VU LSC Director Dr Arvydas Lubys, and VU alumnus Donatas Staniulis. The ceremony was hosted by Dr Ingrida Prigodina Lukošienė, Vice-Director for Studies at VU LSC. On behalf of the graduates, speeches were delivered by Bachelor’s graduate Uršulė Barkauskaitė and Master’s graduate Aistė Židonytė.
Addressing the graduates, VU Vice-Rector Dr Artūras Vasiliauskas emphasised the role of universities in today’s world.
“This graduation ceremony is taking place at a challenging time for the world, when the importance of universities working towards a more sustainable and harmonious society is particularly evident. By awarding these diplomas, we are sending a positive message that we are successfully fulfilling our mission,” he said.
VU LSC Director Dr Arvydas Lubys noted that this graduating class is leaving the University during a particularly significant year.
“This graduating class is special because we are celebrating it during the anniversary year of the Vilnius University Life Sciences Center, marking ten years since the establishment of the Centre and 245 years of life sciences at Vilnius University. It is a long and meaningful tradition that unites generations of scientists, researchers, and lecturers whose work has contributed to the strength and international recognition of Lithuanian life sciences. From today, you become part of this continuing story,” said the Director.
Speaking to the graduates, VU alumnus Donatas Staniulis encouraged them to take pride in the path they had chosen. He reminded them that Lithuania has long been recognised internationally for its achievements in biotechnology – from gene-editing technologies and the development of advanced therapeutic solutions to its significant contribution during the COVID-19 pandemic, when a substantial share of testing reagents used worldwide was produced in Lithuania and Lithuanian scientists directly contributed to the development of next-generation RNA vaccines. According to him, today’s graduates will soon contribute to new discoveries that can help address some of the most pressing challenges in health, environmental sustainability, and society.
The ceremony was enriched by musical performances from organist Vidas Pinkevičius and soloist Modestas Jankūnas. The traditional student anthem Gaudeamus Igitur marked the symbolic conclusion of one important stage of life and the beginning of another.
This year, 284 students graduated from VU LSC. During the ceremony, 198 Bachelor’s diplomas were awarded, including 8 Magna Cum Laude and 9 Cum Laude distinctions. A total of 86 students completed Master’s studies, with 11 receiving Magna Cum Laude and 6 receiving Cum Laude honours.
The VU LSC community congratulates all graduates and wishes them every success, hoping that the knowledge, experience, and connections gained at the University will serve as a strong foundation for their future professional and personal achievements.