Ten years of discoveries, ideas, and the courage to change society. This is the achievement of Mykolas Romeris University’s (MRU) Social Innovations Laboratory network – a unique interdisciplinary initiative that brings together researchers and scholars from different fields to address pressing societal challenges. Over the past decade, the laboratories have become spaces where new research is born, innovations are tested, and connections with communities, state institutions, and international networks are forged.

MRU marks this journey with a special event – Science and Innovation Week, which will take place on October 13–17 and bring together the academic community and partners from Lithuania and abroad. The title is symbolic: “ 10 Years of Social Innovations: Discoveries, Transformations and Community” The organizers have ambitious plans – the week is intended to become an annual university tradition that unites scholars, students, and society for joint discoveries and meaningful discussions.

The opening highlights include the history of MRU laboratories and science, insights from research centers, and the context of research clusters within the European Reform University Alliance (ERUA), of which MRU is a member. The event will also feature the premiere of the documentary “MRU 35: The University We Live In,” dedicated to the university’s 35th anniversary. During the event, MRU will honor its long-standing partners – representatives of state institutions, municipalities, NGOs, and businesses – who have made significant contributions to the development of the university’s science and studies. Partners will also be invited to join a discussion on the societal impact of MRU’s research results and opportunities for further development.

Each day of the week will have its own theme and focus:

• Tuesday, October 14 – “Science for Society”:public lectures and discussions on the future of education, healthcare challenges, and lifelong learning.
• Wednesday, October 15 – “Science for Youth”:creative workshops, mediation sessions, STEAM activities for children, and sustainability projects initiated by MRU students.
• Thursday, October 16 – “Workshops for Researchers”:seminars, trainings, and practical sessions for researchers and doctoral students focusing on career opportunities and strengthening collaboration, including a conference organized by the Doctoral Society and the MRU Researchers’ Conference at the Parliament of the Republic of Lithuania.
• Friday, October 17 – Closing:reflections on Science and Innovation Week, recognition of the most innovative laboratories and researchers, a symbolic celebration of community, and a special highlight – the presentation of the book “Escaping Stalin”, organized by MRU in cooperation with the Danish Cultural Institute and the Danish Embassy as part of Denmark’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2025.

Events of Science and Innovation Week will also take place at MRU’s Sudovian Academy, where the new STEAM Center will be opened to the public and 10 ongoing research projects will be presented. The community of Marijampolė will also be invited to join discussions on the importance of science together with youth and education representatives.

We invite the entire MRU community, students, alumni, and partners to join the events of Science and Innovation Week. This is not only an opportunity to reflect on the decade-long journey of the Social Innovations Laboratory network but also to create a shared vision for the future.

The detailed program and registration for Science and Innovation Week will be announced soon.