On Tuesday, December 3, the Cabinet of Ministers approved the decision proposed by the Ministry of Education and Science, allowing Riga Stradiņš University (RSU) to transition to an institutional funding model. This new pilot project will provide significant benefits in the fields of higher education and science, including a stronger strategic focus on the growth of science and the promotion of international prestige. This initiative continues the reforms implemented by the Ministry of Education and Science to develop and modernize higher education and science.
The University of Latvia (UL) and the Riga Technical University have already started pilot projects under this model. The initiation of pilot projects for the institutional funding model is a significant step toward enhancing the international competitiveness and quality of higher education in Latvia. These initiatives will provide new opportunities for both universities and the country. The RSU pilot project will run from December 4, 2024, to December 31, 2026.
The project envisions closer collaboration between the RSU and the UL, particularly in fostering resource sharing in the training of sports coaches. This collaboration is a result of consolidation efforts where the science university has taken over this area from the Latvian Academy of Sports Pedagogy.
In line with the needs and demands of the Latvian labor market, the project will ensure the efficient and high-quality preparation of specialists in the fields of medicine and sports.
As a result of the reforms proposed by the Ministry of Education and Science, the sustainable development of Latvia’s higher education system will be ensured, promoting quality higher education and employment, thereby contributing to the country's economic growth and competitiveness.