VILNIUS TECH Vice-Rector for Studies, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Živilė Sederevičiūtė-Pačiauskienė, and ATHENA Institutional Coordinator, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Asta Radzevičienė, participated in the prestigious ATHENA Alliance partners' meeting dedicated to the 70th anniversary of the University of Salento. Strategic issues related to the alliance's expansion were also discussed in Lecce, Italy.
 

ATHENA Board Meeting: Strategic Goals and Action Plan
 

During the ATHENA Board Meeting, the strategic action plan for 2025 was discussed. The meeting covered discussions on the results of the ATHENA coordinators' meeting with representatives of the European Commission’s DG Education (EAC Higher Education), the alliance’s representation at upcoming international events, cooperation with other European university alliances (in the ForEU2 format), the upcoming European university alliances meeting in Maribor, partner invitations and the development of joint study programs, as well as strengthening scientific collaboration within the ATHENA network.
 

During the meeting, the alliance’s key performance indicators (KPIs) for 2025 were also approved, guidelines for further alliance growth and expansion were established, and agreements were made regarding upcoming new visits and collaborations.
 

“At the meeting with ATHENA alliance strategic partners, we were pleased that study activities and research among strategic partners are gaining momentum. Considering that sustainable partnerships in higher education develop slowly, such collaboration among alliance members is truly encouraging – together, we are creating double-degree programs that will provide greater opportunities for students. It was also decided at the meeting to strengthen researcher partnerships, promote joint scientific publications, and encourage both short-term and long-term visits,” said Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ž. Sederevičiūtė-Pačiauskienė.

 

The President of Italy, H.E. Sergio Mattarella, congratulated the University of Salento on its anniversary. He emphasized the university’s importance in regional development and international cooperation. This prestigious event provided ATHENA partners with a unique opportunity to strengthen ties with the University of Salento’s partner network, the Italian Conference of University Rectors (CRUI), business leaders, and international partners. Furthermore, the meetings served as an excellent platform for future collaboration and the development of new opportunities within the ATHENA ecosystem.