Shaping the Future of Higher Education: Arqus Student Lab at Vilnius University

On 2–3 July 2025, Vilnius University welcomed students from across the Arqus Alliance to the very first Transversal Arqus Student Lab – a two-day event designed to empower students to actively shape academic life.

Organised at the Institute of International Relations and Political Science, the Lab brought together eighteen students selected through an open call earlier this year. The selected participants included students from various Arqus universities, some of whom have been involved in other Alliance-related activities and initiatives. The Student Lab was launched as part of the Arqus Student Agora and funded through the Arqus Innovation Fund.

Working in international teams, participants applied creative and practical methods to develop ideas and propose solutions. Throughout the Lab, they strengthened essential transversal skills – including communication, critical thinking, and teamwork – while gaining professional growth tools, such as CV and LinkedIn planning, personal branding and reflective thinking.

The Lab followed a structured format combining guided sessions, teamwork, and open discussion and feedback opportunities. At the end of the programme, each group presented their project concept and received input from peers and facilitators. Students also had time to connect informally and experience the atmosphere of Vilnius University.

This initiative was supported by the Arqus Innovation Fund under the programme Transversal Arqus – Arqus Alumni Mentorship Programme.