From October 21 to 23, 2025, the Rector of Mykolas Romeris University (MRU), Prof. Dr. Inga Žalėnienė, participated in the International Association of Universities (IAU) conference titled "Building Trust in Higher Education," held in Kigali, Rwanda. The event was organized by the University of Rwanda in collaboration with the IAU.
The conference brought together higher education leaders from around the world to discuss how universities can strengthen academic culture, transparency, and public trust in higher education institutions.
As Vice President of the International Association of Universities and a member of the Executive and Administrative Boards, Prof. Dr. Inga Žalėnienė also participated in strategic meetings of the association, where a shared vision was developed to create a stronger, more resilient, and collaboration-driven global higher education community.
During the conference, Prof. Dr. Inga Žalėnienė moderated a session titled "Fostering Resilient Global University Collaboration in Times of Turmoil." The discussion featured prominent experts, including Prof. Jemima Asabea Anderson (University of Ghana), Dr. César Wazen (Qatar University), and IAU President and Vice-Chancellor of Murdoch University (Australia), Prof. Andrew Deeks.
The session explored how universities can maintain academic freedom, institutional autonomy, and international partnership relations grounded in trust-based principles amidst global uncertainty and challenges. The discussion emphasized the importance of universities acting in solidarity, striving for responsible internationalization, and maintaining open dialogue with the public and policymakers. Even in difficult times, higher education must remain a bridge-builder – connecting peace, cooperation, and global understanding.
"Academic ties, the exchange of ideas and experiences, strengthen the unity of universities. By working together, we can enhance global dialogue, international collaboration, and defend the core values of higher education – the foundation of societal progress," noted Prof. Dr. Inga Žalėnienė.
The participation of the MRU Rector in this high-level event is significant both for Mykolas Romeris University and for the entire Lithuanian higher education community. MRU is the only Lithuanian university whose leader is part of the IAU Executive and Administrative Boards, which makes strategic decisions regarding the global higher education agenda.
This visit provided an opportunity to enhance the visibility of Lithuanian higher education in the African region, showcase MRU's experience in internationalization, good governance, and academic trust, and develop new partnerships with universities from from various regions around the world.
