University News

Mind the Gap: Not Social But Physical Distancing

An international initiative seeks to change the term "social distancing" to a more appropriate one: “physical distancing”. The campaign’s authors, Human Rights in Mental Health-FGIP and VMU, have also prepared COVID-19-related recommendations for closed institutions and initiated a fundraiser for protective gear.

Prof. Robert van Voren. Getting Ready for the Next One

It might seem premature to start a discussion about future pandemics, but in fact it is already overdue. Three months into the lock-down which has gripped the majority of people on the planet and has already had unprecedented effects on the global community, we can already see where many things have gone wrong and how at least some of the consequences could have been averted.

Information about Library Work from June 1

Following the government’s loosening of quarantine requirements 4 library departments are opened: V. Biržiška Library, Agricultural Academy Library, Music Academy Library and Education Academy Library. Library opening hours from June 1 to June 30 (Monday - Friday) 10 am - 5 pm.

Prof. Robert van Voren. Lithuania Takes the Lead

When a month and a half ago I wrote a brief op-ed in 15min calling on people not to use the term “social distancing”, I did not expect such an overwhelming reaction. My “crie de couer” was the result of the feeling that the notion was a damaging one and only increased the isolation in which a significant portion of the population was already living due to psychosocial or physical disability or because of old age.

Procedure of Exam Session and Final Thesis Defence

In the meeting of the Rector’s Council yesterday, a long discussion was held about the possible procedure of this semester’s exam session and the defence of the final theses. A wide variety of opinions and perspectives were expressed, including the views of the VMU Student Representative Council. After this discussion, the following guidelines have been approved for the organisation of studies at Vytautas Magnus University under the relaxed lockdown rules:

First Funds for Students Affected by COVID-19

In the end of April this year Vytautas Magnus University (VMU) has established a support fund for students who experience financial difficulties as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The fund aims to support university students and their families who experience financial difficulties because of the lockdown.