On March 5, the Rector of Mykolas Romeris University (MRU), Prof. Dr. Inga Žalėnienė, together with Vice-Rectors Prof. Dr. Natalija Kaminskienė, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Saulius Spurga, Dr. Eglė Malinauskienė, and Director of Infrastructure and Technology Rimantas Kuliešius, presented the University’s 2025 annual activity report. The presentation highlighted key strategic decisions, achievements in studies and research, international partnerships, and the strengthening of the university community.
35 Years: From Historical Memory to a Vision for the Future
The year 2025 for MRU was marked not only by the consistent implementation of the University’s strategic plan but also by the symbolic 35th anniversary of the institution. After the Senate declared the 2024–2025 academic year the Year of the University, the community had the opportunity to reflect on the path travelled and further strengthen MRU’s identity as a university of the individual, society, and the state.
“It is incredible to see what the University has achieved and how it has transformed over 35 years. From a small specialised higher education institution it has grown into a modern university active in the international academic space – educating leaders for the state and society, creating innovations, and actively contributing to the progress of Lithuania and the global community,” said MRU Rector Prof. Dr. Inga Žalėnienė.
Throughout the year, MRU organised initiatives of significance to both the state and the academic community: the discussion series “Human, Society, State,” the premiere of the documentary “MRU35: The University Where We Live,” the Festival of Scientific Thought, a conference at the Seimas of the Republic of Lithuania, and an alumni gathering marking Restoration of Independence Day of Lithuania on March 11. These events demonstrate MRU’s ongoing commitment to preserving historical memory, fostering academic values, and strengthening the university community.
Growth in a Complex Geopolitical Context
The past year unfolded in a challenging international environment shaped by Russia’s war against Ukraine, technological breakthroughs, the rapid development of artificial intelligence, disinformation, and climate change. Despite these circumstances, the University consistently pursued its strategic goals: strengthening the quality of research and studies, modernising infrastructure, developing partnerships with public institutions and international partners, and paying particular attention to the well-being of its community.
In 2025, MRU had 6,176 students and learners, and the University graduated 1,518 alumni. The student satisfaction rate with studies remained stable at 61 percent, while the share of students completing their studies on time reached 67 percent. Nearly 8 percent of students participated in partial studies abroad, exceeding the University’s strategic target.
Study Innovations and New Responses to State Needs
The University offered 75 study programmes across 19 fields, nearly half of which were taught in English or were bilingual. Responding to the needs of society and the state, MRU continuously updated its study content and launched new programmes.
At the Public Security Academy of Mykolas Romeris University, the bachelor’s programme National Security was launched in cooperation with seven law enforcement institutions. The programme strengthens competencies in national security and prepares highly qualified officers.
The activities of the Consolidated Teacher Training Centre also gained momentum, with partnerships being developed with Kaunas University of Technology, Lithuanian Sports University, and Vilniaus kolegija. The establishment of the Neurodidactics Centre will create conditions for the development of science-based educational solutions and strengthen the teacher training system in Lithuania.
One of the most significant strategic decisions was the establishment of the Sūduva Academy of Mykolas Romeris University in Marijampolė. Eight university-level study programmes were launched there, strengthening the region’s academic, cultural, and economic potential.
Internationalisation: From ERUA to Global Partnerships
In 2025, MRU actively contributed to the development of the European Reform University Alliance (ERUA), helping strengthen the alliance’s institutional structure and long-term cooperation model. The University organised intensive blended programmes, launched the first ERUA micro-credential Social Entrepreneurship, and developed initiatives related to artificial intelligence ethics and Service-Learning.
MRU was active in 21 international organisations and networks, collaborated with 47 universities in 26 countries outside the European Union, signed 11 new cooperation agreements, and joined the Global Coalition of Ukrainian Studies.
Research Creating Value
MRU continues to strengthen its international scientific competitiveness. The number of citations in the Web of Science and Scopus databases reached 10,206 and increased by 17.4 percent over the year. More than half of peer-reviewed articles were published in high-level journals, while the share of Q1–Q2 publications continued to grow.
In 2025, the University implemented 143 projects, including 63 research projects. More than 30 national and international conferences were organised, strengthening the visibility of MRU and the Lithuanian academic community in the international arena.
Community – the University’s Strength
The University’s progress is driven by a strong community. Employee satisfaction increased, staff turnover decreased, and nearly 4,500 participants completed professional development programmes. Student evaluations remained high, while strong graduate employment indicators confirm the quality of studies.
The University is also strengthening its relationships with alumni and social partners, while investments in infrastructure are creating a solid foundation for further growth.
Strong Foundations for the University of the Future
The year 2025 became a period when strategic goals translated into tangible results. The development of the Social Innovation Excellence Centre, the strengthening of training for internal service officers, regional expansion, and growing internationalisation demonstrate MRU’s consistent and systematic progress.
During the event, their areas of activity were also presented by Council member Prof. Dr. Saulius Katuoka, Senate Chair Prof. Dr. Romas Prakapas, and Student Representation President Gabija Staponaitė.
After the presentation of the report, the Rector also awarded letters of appreciation to MRU employees for their meaningful contributions to building and nurturing the University.
