RSU international alumni return to the university for their first reunion
On Saturday, 20 June, the first Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU) international alumni reunion took place. The event brought together around 50 alumni, uniting different generations of graduates – from the classes of 1995 to 2025.
University development and alumni engagement
The day was opened by RSU Rector Prof. Aigars Pētersons, who emphasised that international students and alumni are an integral part of the University's international environment. This was followed by an address from the Latvian Minister for Health and one of RSU's first international graduates, Hossam Abu Meri, who shared his delight at having the opportunity to reunite with his fellow students after 30 years.
The morning session was made particularly heartwarming by the Vice-Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Smuidra Žermanos, who has personally known and supported international students over many years. Meanwhile, the RSU Chancellor, Toms Baumanis, updated attendees on the university's development in recent years and its future plans. Ieva Šlēziņa, Director of the Medical Education Technology Centre, spoke about the centre's operations and development opportunities, and invited alumni to engage in the activities of the Alumni Association. The morning session concluded with a speech by the Executive Director of the RSU Alumni Association, who introduced the reunion's organising team.
Following the formal part of the event, alumni participated in guided tours of the Anatomy Museum and the RSU Institute of Anatomy and Anthropology, led by Professor Māra Pilmane.
Memories, conversations and belonging to the RSU community
The evening session was opened by Rector Aigars Pētersons, while Professor Dace Gardovska introduced those present to the activities and development goals of the RSU Foundation. The evening proceeded in an informal atmosphere, with guests enjoying dinner, live music performed by the band The Originals, and a musical programme by DJ Emanuel. Alumni, their family members, friends, and the RSU team shared memories and together celebrated the joy of reconnecting and belonging to the RSU community.
In his closing remarks, the Rector confirmed that the next RSU international alumni reunion will take place in five years' time.
The reunion once again demonstrated that the RSU alumni community extends far beyond national borders. Despite the years and the distances, alumni remain connected through shared memories, professional experience and a strong sense of belonging to RSU. The University and the RSU Alumni Association are already looking forward to future reunions as they continue to strengthen this international community and shape new collaboration stories for the future.
Sincere thanks to the RSU Alumni Association, the RSU team and everyone involved for their invaluable contribution to making this special event possible.
