RSU presents results of changes following consolidation

On 31 March, Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU) held an event entitled ‘RSU consolidation: from changes to growth’, dedicated to presenting the results of consolidation, during which the changes implemented over recent years and their impact on the university’s development were assessed. The participants were addressed by RSU Rector Prof. Aigars Pētersons, Minister of Finance Arvils Ašeradens, and Director of the Department of Higher Education, Science and Innovation at the Ministry of Education and Science Liene Levada.

In his opening speech, RSU Rector Prof. Aigars Pētersons emphasised that consolidation was a strategic decision that has allowed the university to become more united and efficient, with a clear orientation towards future development.

‘Consolidation does not mean structural changes alone – it is a conscious choice to build a robust research university that is able to make significant contribution to public health and development,’ stated the Rector.

Consolidation: a contribution to the development of the state and higher education

In his address, Minister of Finance Arvils Ašeradens highlighted the importance of the RSU consolidation as a successful example of the purposeful use of public funding. He emphasised that investment in higher education and science is a contribution to the state’s competitiveness, innovation, and the development of human capital. 

In turn, Liene Levada, representative of the Ministry of Education and Science, underlined consolidation as an important tool for the development of the higher education system, emphasising RSU as an example that confirms that structural changes can enhance quality, efficiency, and international competitiveness.

Main consolidation results

During the event, the RSU management presented the key consolidation results: the creation of a unified university ecosystem, strengthening of scientific capacity, modernisation of study programmes, and development of research infrastructure. Particular focus was placed on the integration of the Latvian Academy of Sport Education into RSU, which has made it possible to create a unique health and sports science ecosystem in Latvia.

The presentations also highlighted developments in science, including the establishment of new laboratories, core facilities, and the RSU Innovation Centre, as well as the introduction of career and research grants, thereby strengthening the university’s research potential.

At the end of the event, participants had the opportunity to take part in interactive workshops, where they could observe the practical results of consolidation across different fields – social sciences, innovation, sports science, and research.

RSU consolidation is one of the largest higher education development projects in Latvia and is already delivering tangible and measurable results – strengthened research capacity, modernised studies, and a unified, internationally competitive university.