Vilnius University Interfaculty Academic Debates: Who Will Be the Best Team of 2025?

On 20 May, the Faculty of Philology at Vilnius University (VU) will host the interfaculty academic debate in English, “Discourse and Society”. The event will feature student teams from four faculties: Philology, Philosophy, Law, and Economics and Business Administration.

This debate marks the culmination of the joint university course Academic Debate, which is part of the English Philology programme offered by the Faculty of Philology. The primary aim of the event is to foster critical thinking, enhance interfaculty dialogue, and strengthen engagement and cooperation within the academic community. Participants will apply their skills in argumentation, public speaking, and critical analysis to explore three timely and thought-provoking topics: the impact of technology on social cohesion, the robotisation of the labour market, and the challenges of leadership in contemporary society.

Dr Linara Bartkuvienė, Chair of the English Philology Study Committee, highlights the broader value of academic debate: “Debating is not only a way to apply academic knowledge, but also a reflection of personal maturity and emotional intelligence. It cultivates logical reasoning, critical thinking, and the ability to listen, respond to criticism constructively, and defend one’s position with integrity. Debate is not solely about winning – it is about respectful dialogue, understanding different perspectives, and developing empathy, communication, and inner poise.”

Prof Mindaugas Kvietkauskas, Dean of the Faculty of Philology and ambassador of the event, adds: “Academic debates are a long-standing tradition at many prestigious universities in Europe and the UK, and the VU Faculty of Philology is proud to carry it forward. This format deepens our understanding of contemporary societal challenges and encourages fact-based, logical, and research-informed discussion. “Discourse and Society” offers both an intellectual challenge and a platform for cultivating thoughtful, articulate individuals who can engage in meaningful public discourse.”

The debating students will be adjudicated by an independent panel of experts, comprising professionals in their respective fields: Jonathan P. Herzog, a diplomat from the U.S. Embassy, Mark Pass, a diplomat from the UK Embassy, and Prof Artūras Vasiliauskas, Vice-Rector for Partnerships at Vilnius University.

The debate will take place on 20 May at 17:00 in the V. Krėvės Auditorium, Faculty of Philology (Universiteto St. 5). The event will be moderated by Associate Professor Liudmila Arcimavičienė from the Faculty of Philology. The debate will be conducted in English. We warmly invite the entire academic community to participate – come watch the debates, support your faculty’s team, and engage in a dynamic event where critical reasoning, public speaking, and interdisciplinary dialogue come together.