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The launch of ChatGPT, a generative AI chatbot, in November last year marked the beginning of an AI revolution. Rapidly becoming an essential tool across many professions—such as finance, copywriting, translation, editing, and law—it prompts a reevaluation of the future necessity of various jobs. We spoke with Dr. Jolanta Bieliauskaitė, Rector of Kazimieras Simonavičius University (KSU) and Professor of Law, to explore how AI will reshape the legal profession and what changes legal professionals need to prepare for.
The Impact of AI on the Legal Profession
Dr. Bieliauskaitė explains that, like many other professions, the legal field can greatly benefit from AI, which serves as an excellent assistant in handling preparatory tasks. “Lawyers can already optimize their workflow using AI tools: they can prepare documents, edit texts, translate legal concepts, draft contracts, and write letters more efficiently,” she notes. One standout capability of AI is its proficiency in analyzing vast amounts of documents—a task that many lawyers find time-consuming and are increasingly willing to outsource to AI.
Challenges of Implementing AI in Law
However, the integration of AI in the legal domain is not without its challenges. Dr. Bieliauskaitė highlights several issues, particularly concerning data protection, confidentiality, and decision-making. “These are serious concerns,” she says. “In systems like ChatGPT, data retention and further use are points of contention. Abroad, AI systems are being deployed on corporate servers or in private clouds to mitigate these risks.” Another significant issue is accountability—who is liable for mistakes made by a robot lawyer?
Can AI Replace Lawyers?
Dr. Bieliauskaitė is clear that while AI can assist with many legal tasks, it cannot replace the nuanced decision-making of a human lawyer. “AI can perform many of a lawyer’s tasks, but making a decision requires weighing multiple factors. Only a human, equipped with comprehensive information, knowledge, and intelligence, can creatively solve legal problems that often involve moral and social dimensions,” she asserts. “Mistakes in law are both painful and costly.”
The Future of the Legal Profession
Despite the advancements in AI, Dr. Bieliauskaitė is confident that the legal profession will not disappear. “The need and importance of lawyers will not diminish. AI will help reduce the time spent on routine tasks, but the legal system cannot be regulated by AI alone,” she states. “Lawyers will continue to be indispensable in addressing complex legal issues.”
However, she emphasizes that lawyers must now acquire additional skills such as management, project management, design thinking, process and data analytics, and technological proficiency. “Our university continuously updates its law curriculum to align with global trends and market needs, ensuring that lawyers develop relevant competencies,” she adds.
Preparing for the Changes
To adapt to the technological revolution, Dr. Bieliauskaitė advises that lawyers learn to navigate and leverage AI systems while managing the associated risks. “Universities must review their curricula, assess the future roles of lawyers, and provide opportunities for current professionals to develop new competencies,” she suggests. As an example, she mentions an upcoming event organized by Kazimieras Simonavičius University, titled “Innovations in Law and Technology: Applying Artificial Intelligence in Law and Business,” which will offer practical insights into AI innovations and their applications in legal and business contexts.
Developing Future-Ready Skills
Dr. Bieliauskaitė concludes that to adapt to new realities, continuous learning, creativity, critical thinking, and adaptability are essential. “The role of creative and critical thinking will only grow in importance, and it is our responsibility in education to create environments where these qualities can thrive,” she asserts.
In this age of artificial intelligence and digitalization, a significant gap remains between men and women in creating or developing their businesses online. According to the World Bank, 42% of women in developed countries engage in e-commerce, compared to only 19% in less developed countries. In Lithuania, as in other EU countries, initiatives are underway to support women and girls in developing their information and communication technology (ICT), business, and soft skills to promote their employment and entrepreneurship in the e-commerce sector.
Reda Juodkūnienė, project manager at Kazimieras Simonavičius University (KSU), highlighted that to increase women’s participation in e-commerce, the university, along with international partners, implemented a project aimed at developing the necessary competencies for women in e-commerce. According to Juodkūnienė, empowering women to feel comfortable in the digital space opens up greater opportunities for them to realize their business ideas. “Women can create jobs with minimal costs and test business ideas with less risk. Having their own business online allows women to balance work with family needs more flexibly, be independent, and self-sufficient,” says Juodkūnienė.
Addressing Women’s Unemployment Through E-commerce
The drive to address women’s unemployment by enabling them to participate in creating their own e-businesses led to the creation and implementation of the project “E-commerce Training for Women Entrepreneurs.” This project developed a training program to improve digital skills and knowledge related to e-commerce, offering interactive training courses freely accessible on an online platform. The platform also includes a special e-commerce business guide filled with examples and practical tips.
Community Engagement and Expert Insights
The KSU project team invited women entrepreneurs to a brunch where they discussed the project results and offered lectures from invited professionals. Indrė Kudrevičė, founder of Mentorės.lt and the “Sėkminga Aš” community, shared her insights on promoting women’s entrepreneurship and the opportunities in e-commerce. She emphasized that the learning platform created during the project is an excellent tool for women wanting to take their first independent steps in both creating and developing a business.
Balancing E-business and Family
Vaida Ivaniukaitė, developer of the “Y Tėvai” brand and family educator, shared her experience on balancing efforts between e-business and family. “It is very important to plan time to achieve balance, set personal priorities, and the more knowledge and experience you accumulate, the easier things go,” said Vaida.
Professional Communication and Etiquette
Indrė Sapagovaitė, an etiquette and protocol specialist and founder of www.modernusetiketas.lt, advised women on how to handle certain situations when interacting with business partners and clients. She emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance between friendliness and professional communication.
Personal Experiences and Encouragement
Natalija Glazunova, entrepreneur and founder of “Skonio burtai,” encourages women to engage in e-commerce boldly and shared her personal experience of managing her business while working a regular job. She highlighted the importance of planning, proper knowledge, and continuous learning.
Brigita Šilinskė, developer of the “Aš Lietuvė” brand, improved her knowledge in cybersecurity and financial management through the training program. She found that the self-study courses clarified various essential actions in e-commerce, making her work much easier.
Training Program and Future Use
The training program is also adapted for lecturers, ensuring its continued use to promote women’s entrepreneurship. Anyone interested in strengthening their knowledge in e-commerce can learn independently on the platform.
For more information about the entrepreneurial women’s project implemented by Kazimieras Simonavičius University (Project No. 2021-1-LT01-KA220-ADU-000026390), in cooperation with international partners from Turkey, Austria, France, Italy, Croatia, and Romania, click here (https://ksu.lt/apie-universiteta/padaliniai/projektu-pletros-skyrius/ekomercija-2/).
You can find the e-learning platform [here](https://www.ecommerce4women.com/challenges).
Kazimieras Simonavičius University (KSU) will organize a 5-6 month Lithuanian language course starting in September for Ukrainians who have arrived in Lithuania due to the Russian-led war against Ukraine. This course aims to help Ukrainians learn the Lithuanian language and gain insights into the history, culture, and social structure of Lithuanian society. Through collaboration with our project partners, we aspire to facilitate the successful integration of Ukrainians in Lithuania and achieve a positive project outcome.
Our objective is to provide language competencies to Ukrainians as efficiently and rapidly as possible. The training will utilize cognitive learning methodologies with specific exercise models covering the basics of texts, dialogues, expression, vocabulary enrichment, mediation, and spelling.
The course will cover proficiency levels A1, A2, B1, and B2, and is offered free of charge.
The KSU project commences on 1 August and will run until 31 March 2025.
КCУ запрошує українців вивчати литовську мову
Університет Казімєраса Сімонавічюса (КСУ) з вересня організовує 5-6-місячний курс литовської мови для українців, які приїхали до Литви через війну, яку Росія веде проти України. Курс допоможе українцям вивчити литовську мову та дізнатися про історію, культуру та соціальну структуру литовського суспільства. Разом з партнерами проекту ми прагнемо досягти позитивних змін в інтеграції українців у Литві та досягти успішного результату проекту.
Навчаючи українців литовської мови, ми будемо прагнути максимально ефективно та швидко забезпечити їх мовними компетенціями. Навчання базуватиметься на когнітивній методиці навчання з використанням конкретних моделей вправ, що охоплюють основи текстів, діалогів, висловлювання, збагачення словникового запасу, посередництва та правопису.
Тренінг охоплюватиме рівні А1 та А2, В1 та В2. Навчання є безкоштовним.
Проект ХДУ стартує 1 серпня і триватиме до 31 березня 2025 року.
The world of fashion is ever-evolving, presenting limitless opportunities for those passionate about its dynamic landscape. Greta Kukštaitė, a renowned fashion journalist and co-founder of the “Fashion Academy,” exemplifies the boundless potential within the industry. Her story, from childhood dreams to professional achievements, is a testament to the power of dedication and creativity.
A Childhood Dream Turned Reality
Greta’s fascination with fashion began at a young age. “I started ‘publishing’ fashion magazines when I was very young,” she reminisces. From drawing covers to crafting articles and imaginary celebrity interviews, Greta’s early experiences laid the foundation for her future career. Today, she is a celebrated writer for Elle magazine, covering a myriad of fashion topics.
The Academic Journey
After finishing school, Greta pursued her passion at Kazimieras Simonavičius University (KSU), the only institution in Lithuania offering a Fashion Industry study program. “Deciding what to study was easy – I knew I wanted to work in fashion,” Greta recalls. The university provided her with invaluable knowledge and inspiration from esteemed professors like fashion guru Prof. Eugenijus Skerstonas. Contrary to common misconceptions, KSU’s program focuses on fashion business, communication, and management, rather than just pattern-making and sewing. “The fashion industry is vast, with countless areas for self-realization and a need for a wide range of competencies,” Greta explains.
The Birth of Fashion Academy
During her time at KSU, Greta conceived the idea of creating a fashion academy for enthusiasts. This dream materialized in early March when she, in collaboration with KSU, founded the “Fashion Academy.” The academy offers an 8-week program for high school students, university students, and fashion enthusiasts, aiming to broaden horizons and help participants explore their future dreams. “It’s important to start realizing oneself as early as possible,” Greta emphasizes, encouraging continuous learning and the pursuit of new opportunities.
A Unique Educational Experience
The “Fashion Academy” stands out as the first of its kind in Lithuania. Participants have the opportunity to engage with prominent experts in various fashion fields, including design, styling, communication, technology, and haute couture. They also gain insights into finding their niche within the fashion world. Greta attributes the academy’s success to the professionalism of its lecturers, who bring diverse experiences from both local and international fashion scenes.
Positive Feedback and Future Ambitions
The initial feedback from academy participants has been overwhelmingly positive. “Participants have mentioned gaining courage, self-confidence, and a better understanding of career opportunities in fashion,” Greta shares. KSU’s rector, Prof. Dr. Jolanta Bieliauskaitė, expresses pride in the successful careers of the university’s fashion industry graduates. She highlights the university’s ambition to expand its fashion studies at both the bachelor’s and master’s levels, responding to industry trends and the growing demand for skilled professionals.
“We plan to continue educating experts capable of navigating the multifaceted fashion industry, adapting to technological changes, and promoting ethical and sustainable fashion practices,” says the rector. “Greta is a shining example of our ambitious and active graduates, and projects like ‘Fashion Academy’ demonstrate the valuable partnership between alumni and the university.”
On June 17th, the Vice-Rector of Kazimieras Simonavičius University (KSU), L. Tauginienė, participated in a pivotal discussion on scientific and academic integrity. This event delved into the effective integration of integrity education within school curricula and explored collaborative efforts between policymakers, researchers, and academic institutions to foster integrity and address misconduct.
Vice-Rector Tauginienė emphasized that the critical factor is not the students’ age but the stage at which they begin their science education. At this juncture, students can enhance their understanding of privacy (often linked to confidentiality and data protection in research) and the principle of benevolence (related to informed consent and the right to withdraw from research). She stressed that ethical sensitivity requires time to develop and should be nurtured gradually, for example, through participation in citizen science projects that combine the efforts of professional and amateur researchers.
The discussion featured notable participants including Prof. Krista Varantola, former chair of Finland’s National Board on Research Integrity and leader of the working group for the 2023 European Code of Conduct for Research Integrity, and James Parry, Chief Innovation Officer at the UK’s Research Integrity Office (UKRIO). Dr. Sabine Chai, head of the Austrian Agency for Research Integrity, moderated the session.
These thematic discussions, known as EduTalks@CoE, are periodically organized by the Council of Europe’s Platform on Ethics, Transparency, and Integrity in Education (ETINED). Representing Lithuania on this platform is Ieva Vaiciukevičienė from the Centre for Quality Assessment in Higher Education.
We invite you to listen to the recorded discussion: EduTalk@CoE on Research and Academic Integrity on Vimeo.
My name is Victoria Kuchuk, and I’m 18 years old from Dnipro, Ukraine. In 2023, I graduated from Gymnasium 138 with a silver medal. Currently, I am a first-year student at KSU, studying Aviation Management. My choice of profession was not accidental – since childhood, I have been fascinated by airplanes and airports. My hobbies include volleyball and ballroom dancing, and I have received awards in these areas. My main strengths are a strong desire to learn and develop, and I am ready to self-realize in any field of activity. However, I do have a weakness: I set high goals and demands on myself.
KSU offers one of the strongest Aviation Management programmes in Europe, with integrated IATA courses. KSU consists of active specialists in their fields, and small study groups ensure personal attention to each student.
I chose to pursue higher education in Lithuania because it meets high educational standards. Lithuanian universities comply with the Bologna Process of European Higher Education, meaning that the education received here is recognized across Europe. Additionally, Lithuania is an amazing country.
The main difference between studying at KSU and in Ukraine is that, from the first year, students focus on their field of study without being burdened by unrelated subjects. This allows students to dedicate all their time to professional development. Another significant difference is that the teachers and staff at KSU treat students with respect, recognizing their rights and treating them as equals, which is crucial for a novice specialist.
The most surprising aspect of studying in Lithuania is that, thanks to good academic performance, you can partially fund your university studies. It is especially surprising in private universities. Additionally, you can work while obtaining a higher education.
KSU excels in its interactions with Lithuanian and international companies, preparing students for successful careers. KSU employs innovative teaching methods, and the university has student exchange agreements with over 100 universities worldwide. The university offers numerous opportunities for professional training and educational projects abroad and provides excellent job prospects in European countries. The university focuses on specialties that are in demand both now and in the future. I believe KSU is up-to-date with modern standards and needs no improvements.
In the next 5 years, I plan to complete my bachelor’s and master’s degrees at KSU, find a job in my field, and consolidate the knowledge and experience gained from my studies.
Due to the global processes in the world, we are coping with many threats – cyber-security threats, hybrid-threats, security of energy and uses of different resources. Security specialists have to be able to cope with the risks – to analyse, plan risk management in the organisation and to be ready to develop risk management policies and plans in their organisations. From the other side, CEOs, business owners have to be aware about security and should be actively involved in the security risk management process.
This course will create mixed group of security and business students, who will explore security risk management process which is an important part of any business or company.
In frame of the course students will participate in lectures, workshops, practical sessions and study visits. In this Course participants will be bachelor and master level students from Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia and Finland. Lectures and workshops will be led by professors from all partner Universities as well as invited professionals.
Language of the Course – English, participation in the Course – free of change. Organisers will cover travel, accommodation, catering, study visits, some excursions and free time activity costs.
Students will receive 4 ECTS for the participation in the Course which will be recognised at KSU.
When? 13-25 August 2024
Where? Riga, Latvia
Who can apply? Bachelor and master students of Law and Business fields, any other students interested in security risk management topic (except the last year students). Only 5 places are available for KSU students.
Interested? Submit the Application till 20 June by e-mail international@ksu.lt.
This Course is implemented by Turiba University (Latvia) in a cooperation with Kazimieras Simonavicius University (Lithuania), Tallinn University of Technology (Estonia), Laurea University of Applied Sciences (Finland) and Nord University (Norway). Project receives financial support from NORDPLUS Higher education program. Project number: NPHE- 2024/10358.
This season, the sports uniforms of the Vilkaviškis football club Šešupė are proudly displaying the logo of Kazimieras Simonavicius University (KSU). This is thanks to Dovilė Dockaitė, a player for the team who is also pursuing a degree in Business Management at KSU. Dovilė is not just any student; she is a professional footballer who has successfully managed to balance her athletic career with her studies at Kazimieras Simonavičius University.
According to KSU Rector Prof. Dr. Jolanta Bieliauskaitė, the university is dedicated to nurturing and developing students’ talents by creating a supportive environment. This includes flexible lecture schedules and individualized study plans when necessary. “We received a request from Dovilė and the club president to support the team, and we did not hesitate. We provided quality sportswear for the entire women’s team. The achievements of Dovilė’s team are also our achievements,” says the rector.
Dovilė feels continuously supported by both her fellow students and lecturers. She is excited that her alma mater’s name and logo will be featured on her club’s sportswear. ”It is an honor for us to promote KSU – the university where I study. We believe that the KSU insignia will bring us success,” she says.
Vytautas Paunksnis, Dovilė Dockaitė’s coach and the president of football club Šešupė, is thrilled about the partnership with Kazimieras Simonavičius University and hopes it will develop into a long-term collaboration. “We are a club that has been nurturing individual talents through hard work and daily efforts for twenty years. We are grateful to the university for understanding the significance and value of supporting our football,” says the club president. The Šešupė club is a non-profit organization with sponsorship status. “We value every sponsor,” says Vytautas Paunksnis. He asserts that this support is also symbolically important. According to the coach, the club encourages players to achieve career heights not only in sports but also in life. “We are delighted to see how our players’ careers develop – we urge them to find their calling and pursue higher education, which becomes a solid foundation in life,” says Vytautas Paunksnis.
Kazimieras Simonavicius University’s support of Dovilė Dockaitė and the Šešupė football club highlights the institution’s commitment to fostering the growth of its students both academically and athletically. This collaboration is a shining example of how educational institutions can play a vital role in the holistic development of their students, ensuring they achieve success in all areas of life.
On 27-28 May, Kazimieras Simonavicius University (KSU) hosted the 4th International Scientific Conference “Challenges to Modern Law: An International Perspective”. This annual event brought together legal professionals, scholars and students from 12 countries.
This year conference focused on the theoretical and practical problems of human rights, law and technology, legal education, discussed recent developments of the European Union law, and the peculiarities of the Ukrainian legal system in the context of the ongoing war.
According to the Rector of KSU, Prof. Dr. Jolanta Bieliauskaitė, this annual conference is an excellent opportunity to highlight the changes in contemporary law in the international area. “Scientific reflection on law and the legal system is of particular importance for the solution of constantly emerging legal challenges. Therefore, we are very pleased with the growing number of speakers each year. Diversity of topics reveals the latest trends in legal research, legal regulation and the application of law. We believe that the contacts established during the event will also inspire sharing of best practices and will contribute to the improvement of legal systems in different countries,” said the Rector.
On March 1st this year, a renewed programme to support international conferences was launched, initiated by the official development agency of the City of Vilnius “Go Vilnius”. Anyone interested in organising international conferences or other similar events in Vilnius is invited to apply. Applicants can expect up to €30,000 to cover conference costs. Eligible conferences must meet certain criteria including internationality, size, duration, seasonality, etc.
The International Conference Support Programme supports conferences with more than 50 participants, at least half of whom are foreigners. The conference must last at least 2 days and take place in paid venues (hotels, conference centres, non-traditional venues, etc.). All conferences will be evaluated based on a set of criteria, the most important of which are size, internationality and duration. The amount of the reimbursement will not exceed 60% of the conference budget. Only one application per conference will be allowed and must be submitted at least 30 days before the start of the conference.
“We want Vilnius to be visible abroad and recognised as an attractive city to travel, live, work or invest. We know how much effort and resources are involved in planning and organising a European conference or a world congress, and how important the city’s support is, so we believe that this programme, which reduces the financial risks for conference organisers, will help to attract important international events to Vilnius”, says Dovilė Aleksandravičienė, the head of “Go Vilnius”.
The support programme is open to public and private legal entities that organise the conference at their own expense and take responsibility for the organisation of the conference, including conference organisers acting on behalf of the sponsor and able to provide representation.
“This is a necessary and important initiative by the city of Vilnius that will encourage the university to organize more major international conferences and help attract high-level speakers and experts. We are all interested in Vilnius being known abroad not only as a tourist destination, but also as a center of knowledge and innovation,” says Prof. Dr. Jolanta Bieliauskaitė, Rector of Kazimieras Simonavičius University.
In 2023, a total of 74 international conferences benefited from the conference incentive programme, with funding of €615k. This amount was financed from the tourist tax. The economic value generated by these conferences is €17 million.
May has been a vibrant and enriching month at KSU, filled with esteemed guests from across Europe. These visitors have come to share their experiences, insights, and expertise with our students and faculty, creating a dynamic exchange of knowledge and fostering international collaboration.
A Thought-Provoking Lecture on Cultural Interactions
One of the highlights was a lecture by Susran Erkan Eroğlu from Osmaniye Korkut Ata University in Turkey. Eroğlu’s presentation, titled “Cultural Crossroads: Enhancing Interactions in Diverse Environments,” was a thought-provoking exploration of how cultural diversity can be leveraged to create more inclusive and effective interactions in various settings. The lecture provided valuable insights into the importance of cultural sensitivity and adaptability in today’s globalized world.
Electoral Rights of EU Citizens
We also had the pleasure of hosting Marta Czakowska and Michal Czakowski from Kujawy and Pomorze University in Bydgoszcz, Poland. Their captivating lecture on “Electoral Rights of EU Citizens” delved into the legal and social dimensions of electoral participation within the European Union. Their insights highlighted the significance of understanding and exercising electoral rights, emphasizing the role of informed citizens in democratic processes.
The Evolving Role of Academic Libraries
Barbara Lkowalczuk from Eastern European University of Applied Sciences in Bialystok, Poland, together with KSU’s Head of Communication and Information Resources, engaged our audience with a discussion on the evolving role of academic libraries in the contemporary study process. They addressed how the need and function of physical books are changing and discussed the new skills that librarians must acquire in light of the widespread digitization of educational materials. This session underscored the importance of libraries adapting to technological advancements to continue supporting academic success.
Thanks to the Erasmus Program
These enriching visits were made possible by the Erasmus program, which fosters international collaboration and provides our students with access to a global network of knowledge. The program’s support has enabled KSU to host these distinguished guests and offer our community invaluable learning experiences.
The 4th international scientific conference, “Challenges to Modern Law: An International Perspective” will shortly begin, and we look forward to it!
Let us continue to introduce you to the conference participants, and we would like to present you to István Hoffman, who will be the keynote speaker and open the second conference day!
Prof. Dr. István Hoffman, Eötvös Loránd University (Hungary).
István Hoffman has had a distinguished career in academia and public service. Since 2009, he has been a faculty member at Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, where he currently serves as a professor in the Department of Administrative Law. Concurrently, since 2020, he has held a part-time professorship at Maria Curie Skłodowska University in Lublin, Poland, and a senior research fellowship at the Centre for Social Sciences, Institute for Legal Studies in Budapest. His previous roles include senior advisory positions at the Curia (Supreme Court of Hungary) and the Office of the Prime Minister. He earned his PhD in 2008 and his Dr. habil. in 2014 from Eötvös Loránd University, culminating in a DSc. from the Hungarian Academy of Sciences in 2023. Hoffman has been recognized with several awards, including the Master Teacher Gold Medal in 2022 and the Senate Medal of Merit from Eötvös Loránd University in 2021. He actively contributes to various committees and councils, reflecting his ongoing commitment to legal scholarship and education.
István Hoffman will give a conference report on the topic “Phantomization, AI as a tool for standardization of corporate management: transforming regulation for the transforming ecosystem?” on May 28th.
The conference will be held at the Kazimieras Simonavicius University (Dariaus ir Gireno str. 21, Vilnius) venue: 203 room (IInd floor) and online.
Teams meeting link conference for online participants:
Meeting ID: 397 094 675 870
Passcode: muXDDk
Conference program: Final Programme
More information about the conference: 4th International scientific conference
Conference e-mail: mlconference@ksu.lt
See you at the conference!