RSU Latvian Academy of Sport Education becomes RSU Academy of Sport

As of 1 September, this year, the Rīga Stradiņš University Latvian Academy of Sport Education will operate under a new name – the Rīga Stradiņš University Academy of Sport. 

The name change is part of the academy’s development, creating a clearer and more contemporary identity while maintaining its affiliation with RSU and continuing its long-standing tradition in sports education. The new name is shorter, easier to use and more accurately reflects the academy’s field of activity.  

With the new name, we are not turning away from our history but are continuing to shape it. The tradition of sports education in Latvia dates back more than a century, and our academy is an important part of that heritage. At the same time, we are looking to the future by developing modern sports education, research and preparing professionals for the sports sector. The Rīga Stradiņš University Academy of Sport is a clear and concise name that will enable us to become even more recognisable both in Latvia and within the international academic community. 

Diāna Laipniece,
Director, RSU Academy of Sport  

The name Latvian Academy of Sport Education was used from 1992 to 2024. On 1 July 2024, the Latvian Academy of Sport Education became a constituent of Rīga Stradiņš University and continued to operate as part of RSU. Since then, the academy has been known as the Rīga Stradiņš University Latvian Academy of Sport Education. 

The need for a shorter and more concise name was also driven by practical considerations. The former name was long and difficult to use in everyday communication. Also, it contained two geographical references – ‘Rīga’ and ‘Latvian’. In the international academic community, the names of structural units are generally shorter, easier to understand and more widely recognisable. RSU LASE students and staff were also involved in choosing the new name. The survey results showed support for the name Rīga Stradiņš University Academy of Sport, which was considered most appropriate for the academy’s future development. Survey participants had the opportunity to assess both the current and the new name, as well as to submit their own suggestions. 

As of 1 September 2026, the official name used within the university’s organisational structure is the Rīga Stradiņš University Academy of Sport. The name change does not alter the nature of the academy’s activities – it will continue to be an RSU structural unit, providing sports education, conducting research and promoting professional development opportunities in the sports sector.