On the momentous date of May 9th, Kazimieras Simonavičius University (KSU) was graced with the presence of Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper, a decorated astronaut with an impressive tenure at NASA. Heidemarie has the distinguished record of having spent over 27 days in space across two missions, enhancing our understanding of the vast universe beyond our planet.

During her time at KSU, Heidemarie met with the academic community, sharing insights from her remarkable journey. Her story is not just about space exploration but also about persistent determination and visionary leadership, particularly highlighting the significant role of women in STEM fields.

A Journey of Resilience and Leadership

Heidemarie’s path to becoming an astronaut was characterized by resilience and an unyielding pursuit of her goals. She recounted her childhood experience of flying in an airplane at just four years old, a moment of awe that did not immediately translate into dreams of space but planted a seed of fascination. Her real aspiration towards space exploration crystallized during her service in the US Navy, where she mused, “If I can repair ships underwater, then I can build space stations in space.”

Her determination saw her through a rigorous selection process, with her second application to NASA in 1996 marking the beginning of her active astronaut career. Her missions included multiple spacewalks during the STS-115 and STS-126, where she not only contributed to the construction of the International Space Station but also exemplified teamwork and leadership.

Inspirational Words at KSU

Speaking to KSU students, Heidemarie emphasized the importance of perseverance, continuous learning, and goal orientation. She shared her belief in overcoming challenges through determination: “I’m quite stubborn and if it’s hard, it makes me want to try harder and overcome the obstacle.” Her advice to students was clear and encouraging—fear of failure should not deter one from discovering their limits and potential.

Advocacy and Future Visions

After NASA, Heidemarie returned to the US Navy, continuing to lead in engineering and project management. She remains a fervent community activist, drawing strength from her Ukrainian heritage to support humanitarian causes.

In discussions about the future, Heidemarie spoke passionately about the beauty of Earth from space and the collective responsibility to preserve our planet. She also highlighted the burgeoning opportunities in commercial spaceflight, hinting at a future where business and technology meet beyond Earth’s atmosphere.

 KSU’s Commitment to Aviation and Space

KSU’s selection for Heidemarie’s visit was strategic, given its specialized programs in Aviation Management and the upcoming Aviation & Space Academy. KSU Rector Prof. Dr. Jolanta Bieliauskaitė expressed pride in hosting such an inspirational figure, aligning with the university’s mission to blend social sciences with aviation and space technology.

This event, orchestrated by the US Embassy in Lithuania along with KSU and Imaguru Startup HUB, was not only a testament to international cooperation but also a beacon of inspiration for students and the academic community at KSU. Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper’s visit will undoubtedly ignite passions and encourage many to look towards the stars with ambition and courage.

Haruto Masuda, originally from Osaka, Japan, is currently in his second year studying Business Management at Kazimieras Simonavičius University (KSU). We asked him to respond to 8 questions about his studies and experiences at KSU.

1. Could you briefly introduce yourself?

My name is Haruto; I’m from Osaka, Japan. My favorite activities are cycling, travel, football, photography, and fishing.

2. What motivated your decision to join KSU?

I was searching for a university without any Japanese students. In Lithuania, other universities have some students from my country, but KSU doesn’t. It was a major motivation for me.

3. Why did you choose Lithuania?

Lithuania offers a rich history, easy airport access, and abundant nature, which I appreciate after growing up in bustling Osaka. Vilnius’s smaller size is ideal for me.

4. How do KSU students differ from those in Japan? Are there any notable distinctions? 

Yes! I think the differences stem from educational backgrounds. In Japan, education is mostly passive. People are good at memorising but discussing topics can be challenging. I see it myself – I am not used to it. Also in Japan, people might have opinions, but it’s more important to maintain harmony and try to avoid conflict in groups.

5. What has been the most unexpected aspect of studying in Lithuania? 

I haven’t attended university in Japan, so I can’t compare exactly, but many students here are relaxed, and professors are friendly towards students.

6. What are KSU’s strengths and areas needing improvement?

Strengths: KSU uniquely offers Aviation Management and Fashion Industry. Being smaller than Vilnius University and MRU, it offers opportunities to interact with other students and Erasmus students.

Improvement areas: The need for water dispensers, better chairs, and more interaction with Lithuanian students to understand their viewpoints and approaches better.

7. Can you share three key insights from your time in Lithuania?

As my experiences are mostly in Vilnius:

– Vilnius is safe, calm, and nature-rich, great for students.

– The Lithuanian economy is growing, showing visible developments.

–  Lithuania is a small country. You can make connections easily.

8. What are your plans for the next five years? 

I plan to work in Lithuania after my studies, if possible. For me, Lithuania has become a second home.

Kazimieras Simonavicius University (KSU) launches a new International Master’s Degree programme in Aviation Management, starting September 2024. This initiative extends our existing bachelor’s degree in aviation management, broadening the academic horizon and offering an advanced educational path in this dynamic field. Enrolment is now open, welcoming students from across the globe.

Building on a legacy of excellence

Under the guidance of KSU Rector Prof. Dr. Jolanta Bieliauskaitė, the addition of the master’s programme is a testament to KSU’s longstanding expertise and commitment to aviation management. “The introduction of the master’s degree in aviation management signifies a key advancement for KSU and demonstrates our deep roots and continuous innovation in the aviation sector,” says Prof. Dr. Jolanta Bieliauskaitė. This development is not only a stride forward for the university but also for Lithuania, enhancing the country’s standing in the international educational arena.

A closer look at the master’s programme

The programme is crafted to cater to the evolving needs of the aviation industry, preparing students to become professional aviation specialists and managers. With a curriculum delivered in English and designed around the requirements of the global market, the programme includes a robust lineup of expert lecturers and industry practitioners from around the world.

Curriculum and learning approach

The master’s programme focuses on developing managerial and leadership skills tailored for the aviation industry. Courses are designed to address the latest trends and practices, equipping students with knowledge and skills relevant to their future careers.

Flexible learning for professionals

The bachelor’s degree programme in Aviation Management at Kazimieras Simonavicius University is among Europe’s most sought-after choices in this field. Each year, it draws students not only from Lithuania but also from other European and Asian countries. “The exceptional academic and professional achievements of our students underscore the programme’s effectiveness, with many alumni quickly advancing in their careers. This success can be attributed to the programme’s global approach, which includes instruction from world-renowned aviation experts and practitioners and fosters a network of like-minded professionals who collaborate and grow together. Recognizing the demands of professional life, the programme offers a continuous distance learning format, allowing students to manage their studies alongside work commitments. Our programme is specially designed for those who are already part of the industry and are looking to elevate their careers without sacrificing their current roles,” explains Deimantė Žilinskienė, Head of KSU’s School of Business Innovation and Communication.

Career opportunities and industry connections

As highlighted by Aleksandras Nemunaitis, Chairman of the Board of the National Aviation Association LAVIA, the aviation industry extends far beyond the traditional roles of pilots and cabin crew.

“Despite the absence of national airlines, Lithuania boasts a robust aviation network with Lithuanian-owned companies managing approximately 250 aircraft globally. These operations are primarily based on the Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance (ACMI) model, which enhances efficiency by allowing airlines to share resources and optimize flight operations. This model is pivotal in a country like Lithuania, where the aviation landscape is shaped by these unique operational strategies,” states Nemunaitis.

According to him, “the significance of KSU’s specialized studies in Aviation Management is evident as thousands of professionals’ work from Lithuanian offices to manage and operate flights across the world. This industry-specific education ensures that aviation companies have access to well-trained professionals, fostering a workforce capable of meeting international standards and demands. The master’s programme at KSU, therefore, is not just an educational pathway but a vital component in supporting the aviation industry’s infrastructure and operational needs in Lithuania and beyond.”

Graduates of the programme are well-prepared for high-level positions such as middle or senior managers, team leaders, and supervisors in various sectors of the aviation industry. The course also lays a foundation for students interested in launching startups within the aviation field.

Collaboration and networking

KSU’s programme emphasizes networking, bringing together like-minded professionals and building a community that supports career and personal growth. Our partnerships with leading aviation companies and associations ensure that our curriculum remains industry-relevant and provides our students with unmatched professional opportunities.

We invite aspiring aviation managers and professionals looking to advance their careers to apply to this innovative master’s programme. At KSU, you will gain not just an education but a stepping stone into a promising future in the aviation industry.

For more details about the programme and to apply, please visit our website: Aviation Management Master

Baltic Ground Services (BGS), a leading name in international ground handling, aircraft refueling, and logistics, has announced a significant collaboration with Kazimieras Simonavicius University (KSU) to deliver IATA Authorized Training. This partnership aims to blend academic rigor with practical expertise, preparing students for promising careers in aviation.

The training, which is recognized as the gold standard in the aviation industry by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), will be conducted by seasoned BGS experts alongside KSU’s academic team. Together, they will offer comprehensive theoretical and practical sessions. This initiative is set to enhance the training of future aviation professionals by integrating real-world applications with classroom learning.

Kazimieras Simonavičius University has been conducting introductory Aviation Safety, Airline Finance and Revenue Management, and Cargo Transportation courses for several years.

In partnership with BGS, it will add courses in Passenger Ground Handling and Airport Ramp Services with IATA Ground Handling Operations Manual (IGOM).

The development of these new courses involves meticulous planning and input from both BGS and KSU experts, utilizing IATA’s comprehensive training materials. Vytautas Čekanavičius, CEO of BGS, highlights the company’s commitment to quality education: “We bring a wealth of practical experience from diverse markets and projects. Our goal is to pass this knowledge on to the next generation, ensuring the continued growth and sustainability of the aviation sector.”

Prof. Dr. Jolanta Bieliauskaitė, Rector of KSU, sees the collaboration with BGS as a strategic move to enhance the university’s educational offerings. “This partnership not only broadens our training portfolio but also enriches our students’ learning experience with invaluable practical knowledge,” she remarks. “Our aim is to equip students with skills that are directly applicable in the job market, which is crucial in today’s competitive environment.”

The alliance between BGS and KSU represents a forward-thinking approach to aviation education, emphasizing the importance of blending theoretical knowledge with practical experience to forge a well-rounded and job-ready workforce in the aviation industry.

At Kazimieras Simonavičius University (KSU), dreams take flight, and for Augustė Starkutė, the sky was never the limit. From watching rocket launches in her backyard to earning a prestigious Fulbright scholarship, her journey embodies the spirit of exploration and ambition.

Augustė’s odyssey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management at KSU, where she was nurtured by expert guidance from luminaries like Dr. Konstantinos Kalligiannis. Inspired by her mentor, she set her sights on furthering her education abroad, driven by the scarcity of aviation studies in Lithuania. With determination as her compass, she embarked on a quest for excellence.

Her destination? Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in the United States, a beacon of innovation in aviation education. Here, Augustė found herself not only equipped with the knowledge gleaned from her undergraduate studies but also enriched by her hands-on experience in airport operations and travel agencies. The transition from KSU to Embry-Riddle felt seamless, a testament to the quality of education she received back home.

“Studying for a Master’s degree in the United States is entirely up to the student,“Augustė reflects. “It’s about the pace of learning and the resources at hand.” Armed with a Fulbright scholarship, she seized the opportunity to delve deeper into her passion for aviation, aspiring to specialize in safety, security, and sustainability management.

The Fulbright Scholarship, a symbol of academic excellence and cultural exchange, became her ticket to realizing her dreams. Initiated by the US Embassy in Lithuania, this prestigious award empowers scholars to pursue their chosen fields of study in the United States. Augustė’s application in the spring of 2022 paved the way for her to join the academic cohort of 2023/2024, marking the beginning of a transformative journey.

As she prepares to immerse herself in her studies, Augustė remains steadfast in her commitment to her homeland. “According to the Fulbright scholarship requirements, it is mandatory to return to your home country,” she affirms. Her sights set on contributing to the aviation landscape in Lithuania, she embraces the opportunity to pay it forward, nurturing the aspirations of future aviators.

To those who dare to dream of soaring to new heights, Augustė offers sage advice: “Be brave, seize every opportunity, and never give up. Your journey may have turbulence, but perseverance will always be your copilot.“

Globalisation and aging became part of our daily life, therefore companies and organisations are coping with a wide range of challenges such as lack of qualified employees, teamwork in terms of diversity of age, nationality, etc. It became crucial to understand various differences, and empower them to help company to operate efficiently.

During the intensive programme students will have the opportunity to learn about intercultural communication in teamwork, organisational culture based on diversity management, mental resilience as the reduction of occupational stress, and inclusion of different age generations in teamwork. The programme will include not only lectures and workshops, but case studies, group projects and simulation as well.

The programme is organised by University of Gdansk (Poland) in partnership with Kazimieras Simonavicius Universiry and few other European universities. On-site activities will take place on 17-21 June 2024 at University of Gdansk.

Also, there will be 4 introduction on-line lectures where students will get to know other participants and will participate in lectures which will introduce the main topics of the programmes. Dates: 12-14 June.

Participation in these on-line lectures is mandatory part of the programme. Students, who successfully pass the whole programme, will be awarded 5 ECTS credits which will be recognised as part of their study programme at KSU.

Participation in the programme is free of charge. Selected students will receive Erasmus+ scholarship of EUR 763 for the trip, accommodation and stay costs.

Participants – bachelor and master students (except the last year students). Only 5 places are available for KSU students.

Interested? Submit the application till 25 March by e-mail international@ksu.lt

The Erasmus+ Combined Intensive Programme “Strengthening the Legal Understanding of the EU Institutions and their Functioning” concluded on March 8th, and left a lasting impact on all participants. Seven dedicated KSU Law students embarked on this educational journey.

Beginning with remote lectures led by seasoned EU lecturers and the esteemed President of the Court of Justice of the European Union, Koen Lenaerts, the programme provided a robust foundation in EU law. After conquering remote sessions and passing a rigorous test, our KSU students journeyed to Belgium to join fellow participants.

In Belgium, the learning continued with immersive studies in international law, complemented by enriching field trips and informal gatherings. A highlight for many was the simulated European Parliament debate and vote at Leuven City Hall, leaving an indelible mark on their understanding of EU governance.

Reflecting on this transformative experience, Benas Mockus, a KSU Law student, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to deepen his knowledge of European Union law while forging meaningful connections with peers from diverse European backgrounds.

This remarkable programme was made possible through the collaboration of the  institutions including the University of Applied Sciences of Leuven, Kazimieras Simonavičius University, Lumsa University, Abertay Dundee University, University of Alba Julia, Leiria Institute, Leiden University of Applied Sciences, IUT Villetaneuse, EPHEC, and Villanueva University.

Fashion isn’t just about what you wear – it’s a narrative that reflects the essence of culture and society. These profound words come from none other than Greta Kukšaitė, a luminary in the realm of fashion journalism, currently making waves at Elle Lithuania. Greta’s expertise extends beyond the glossy pages of magazines; she’s a passionate educator, offering personal fashion training, creative workshops, and collaboration with renowned brands.

Greta’s journey from Kazimieras Simonavičius University (KSU) alumna to a seasoned professional underscores the importance of seizing opportunities and bridging academic learning with real-world experiences. While pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Industries at KSU, Greta recognized the need to leap into the industry headfirst, combining her studies with practical internships and hands-on projects. Today, her portfolio boasts over 400 published articles in esteemed international publications, a testament to her unwavering dedication and talent.

Driven by a vision cultivated since her high school days, Greta is set to return to her alma mater, this time as a mentor. With the support of Kazimieras Simonavičius University, Greta, along with other experts, will inaugurate the “Fashion Academy” on March 7th, extending an invitation to upper secondary school pupils and students passionate about shaping their futures in the fashion industry. This program, running until April 25th, promises an enriching experience for all participants, whether their aspirations lie in creative design, marketing, business, or technology.

The Fashion Academy isn’t just another educational venture; it’s a gateway to invaluable insights and career opportunities. Joining Greta are nine distinguished professionals, each a luminary in their respective fields. From seasoned designers like Agnė Kuzmickaitė to digital marketing specialists like Ieva Solominė, participants will have the privilege of learning from the best. Topics will range from exploring the diverse realms of fashion to unraveling future trends and innovations, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the ever-evolving industry landscape.

The KSU university offers a Bachelor study programme in Fashion Industry which offers graduates wide opportunities on the global stage. The programme is run in Lithuanian and English.

The world is coping with a wide range of challenges such as migration, cyber-attacks, organised crime, and other new challenges, including a recent virus-led crisis. In the past years these challenges have also become security issues of importance to many European countries. Security challenges are important for any organisation or company, so experienced and well-trained security specialists are vital for development of any company.

At the moment, it is clear that European countries deal with these challenges in different ways. There are no unified standards and approaches as to how specialists should deal with these kind of challenges. There is a need for professional, well-trained specialists who can realise sound security risk management at various levels and in different kind of organisations.

During the intensive programme students will have the opportunity to learn about security risk management, develop skills, and gain knowledge about planning and implementing security management in various organisations. They will also learn about identifying and managing security risks. Of course, security education also requires practical knowledge and cooperation, so the course will include practical activities such as team challenges and exercises, and other activities that can be crucial factors in real situations.

The programme is organised by Turiba University (Riga, Latvia) in partnership with Kazimieras Simonavicius Universiry and few other European universities. On-site activities will take place on 7-11 May 2024 at Turiba University (Latvia).

Also, there will be 3 introduction on-line lectures where students will get to know other participants and will participate in lectures about security basics and security risk management. Dates: 11 April; 18 April; 25 April, 16:00- 17:30 (Vilnius time).

Participation in these on-line lectures is mandatory part of the programme. Students, who successfully pass the whole programme, will be awarded 3 ECTS which will be recognised as part of their study programme at KSU.

Participation in the programme is free of charge. Selected students will receive Erasmus+ scholarship of EUR 553 for the trip and stay costs, and Turiba University will cover accommodation costs in Students’ hostel (2 bedded rooms).

Participants – bachelor and master students of Law and Business field, 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 form till 20 February by e-mail international@ksu.lt.

KSU representatives attended the “Vantaa Business Day 2023” in Finland. On November 9–10, the Rector of Kazimieras Simonavicius University, Prof. Dr. Jolanta Bieliauskaite, and the Head of the School of Business Innovation and Communication, Doc. Deimantė Žilinskienė, participated in the Aviation Industry and Future Insights Researchers Meeting in Helsinki.

The meeting focused on trends in aviation city development, collaboration between cities and universities in education, research, and development, and the future needs of aviation training. Discussions also centered on leveraging artificial intelligence and big data for the Tourism, Aviation, and Hospitality Experiences Cluster (THE Cluster), as well as exploring entrepreneurial and service opportunities at airports.

Additionally, KSU representatives were actively involved in “Vantaa Business Day 2023.” The event’s theme this year was “Digitalization, artificial intelligence, and evolving competency requirements in business”. The Business Day stands as one of Vantaa’s largest business seminars, annually attracting around 300 business professionals from the region and beyond.