Dear students!
Dear Rector!
I am honoured to be here at Riga Technical University for the second time in a short period, but this time to address you, the participants of the Latvian Students' Union Congress.
Currently, there is a heated discussion taking place among politicians regarding future education financing models. There is ongoing debate regarding the salaries of teaching staff and researchers, the prestige of education and universities, and the necessity for modern infrastructure in terms of facilities and technology.
There is, however, one key question that we must strive to answer every generation – what defines a quality education and how can it be attained? And what does a good education mean, not only for ministers, politicians, and university leadership, but also for students at a competitive university? What it is like to study at an excellent high school or gymnasium, or to dream about your future career? Making your first independent decision can mark a significant milestone. For many of you, choosing where to study, was likely your first major independent decision.
Therefore, for my part, I would like to share some reflections, going back in time a little bit. Since you began with the question: "May I introduce you, Mr President?" Very well, then allow me to introduce myself!
Hello, my name is Edgars. I am barely 17-18 years old. I will graduate from Pumpuri High School this year, yet I still haven't decided what to do next. Of course, I am thinking about a university.
Please accept my apologies, Mr Rector, but I must admit that I did not find math and science particularly enjoyable during my time in school. For that, of course, the teacher is entirely to blame. Not me! Nowadays, the internet provides an abundance of resources for learning, but I have not taken full advantage of them, because there are lots of other interesting things on the internet. But I really enjoy and do well in history. This is something I hope to pursue in future.
However, I must use my time at university to acquire digital skills and brush up on math knowledge. At the minimum, this could help me properly fill out my tax return in the hope of getting back a few overpaid euros.
It is also important to have an understanding of how technology and the environment have impacted historical events. For example, distinguishing between the Bronze Age and the Iron Age requires knowledge of the differences between bronze and iron. If I were to choose archaeology, a lack of elementary knowledge of chemistry and physics could potentially limit my abilities in the field.
Modern technology in archaeology does not imply archaic technology. A shovel and youthful enthusiasm won't cut it. Therefore, a brief STEM foundation course will be required at the outset of your studies. Furthermore, knowledge of statistics and other related skills are necessary for studying other branches of history. In sum, if one wants to truly make the most of their university experience, one must be equipped with the skills to study, research, and work with information, data, and sources.
I will probably regret my choice in the first exam session.
In a way, I even wish the lecturers were stricter and more demanding. Honestly, if they allow me to be lazy, I will not perform to the best of my abilities!
The future success of Latvian universities hinges on having teachers who set high standards and students who are motivated to succeed. That is what I consider to be a good education. It also means providing students with the opportunity to express their concerns regarding outdated material or unsatisfactory content. Yes, this may involve discussing the quality of the curriculum or raising issues with a lecturer whose teaching methods or references are outdated. Or sometimes, frankly, the lecturer is into good old anecdotes, which may be funny and interesting to some, but not to others. Then there are other cases, when lecturers have made students uncomfortable with crude jokes. Or even more disturbingly, we have read about the recent investigation launched at a certain Latvian university. Then I say – it cannot go on like this! Even if the lecturer is a nice person, and even if he is likeable in some way, the quality of the studies and future prospects are important.
Active students must be given real influence to provide feedback on the content of their studies and suggest areas for improvement. It is crucial that students have their own will and their own voice, rather than just superficial inclusion in serious meetings.
As I stated at the beginning of this speech, the quality of education is of utmost importance. It is imperative that education adequately prepares students for their future and provides them with essential life skills. Not listening to or excluding the student from the decision-making process would be similar to renovating a house without knowing who will live in it.
After reviewing the courses offered in my selected programme – I am still that 17-18-year-old citizen – I have observed that some courses seem to have been added in a seemingly forced, incoherent manner. At the same time, I have found an excellent course available elsewhere that I believe would be highly beneficial to me. I would like to remove barriers and facilitate seamless exchange between students from different faculties and even different universities. I believe that universities must prioritize cooperation over rivalry and occasional jealousy.
Dear universities, sharing students will not take anything away, but only enrich you. There will not be any fewer students as a result. On the contrary, if every university found a way to provide the student with the most competitive education, then it will be clear that this university prioritises quality, research, and the needs of the student. That is the kind of university that I would trust, return to myself, and certainly recommend to others.
Studying in person offers a unique opportunity to meet like-minded people, exchange experiences, and engage in spirited discussions based on facts, reasoning, and good ideas. However, it is crucial to avoid becoming trapped in your political-ideological convictions or the assumptions and stereotypes you grew up with.
The earth is round, and the laws of physics remain the same, whether you are liberal or conservative. Climate change is a scientifically proven phenomenon regardless of whether dad and mom or grandma believe in it or not.
At university, it is important to master not only excellent rhetoric and debating skills but also critical and creative thinking, active listening, and observation. Above all, universities must serve as platforms for discussion, debate, and mutual support, even during challenging times.
Of course, if students are forced to work parallel to their studies, they may miss out on many of the benefits that university has to offer. Experiences of studying and struggling together can be taken away when lectures finish at four and you have to rush to work. I am in favour of the view that students must be given the opportunity to study without such distractions. This can be ensured either via scholarships or affordable loans available to cover living costs. This will help to avoid unnecessary overworking and burnout.
As a history graduate, I do not yet know where I will be working, but I am keen to gain practical experience by gaining insight into professional opportunities already during my studies. But I don't want to pursue a fake internship just to sit out. I want one that would provide me with the opportunity to assess my interest in the field, contribute to the organization, and determine if it is a place where I would like to work after graduation.
I have suddenly realized again that I am no longer 17-18 years old. And this is where my training and knowledge as a biologist come in handy. Currently, I am interested in acquiring knowledge and seeking personal development. In fact, I wish it was more common for adults to return to university at a later stage of their lives.
We know the expression that the best new client is the good old client. The same one who, as an adult with or without a degree, is ready to move with the times and study for a bachelor's or master's degree. I admire everyone who is not ashamed, not afraid to go for it and pursue further studies. Let's be honest – as times change, it is necessary to re-evaluate what was considered useful thirty years ago. Therefore, I am convinced that continuous learning and self-improvement are crucial for our society and our country as a whole.
Today, I have shared some of my thoughts on how I envision the ideal university. I would now like to invite you to share your vision for your university and your country. I also know that you have a whole day ahead of you for the debate. Take the time to discuss and listen to each other, while keeping your ideals high.
Even if you do not know yet what is your dream university, I hope that after attending this congress and engaging in discussions, you will gain greater clarity on what that ideal learning environment looks like.
During my frequent meetings with young people in Riga and other Latvia’s regions, including Bauska where I was yesterday, I always try to find the opportunity to meet with young people. I can tell you with outmost confidence – you will be more than fine! Don't listen to anyone who is grumbling and tries to bring you down! Your ability to identify problems, engage in constructive discussions, and find effective solutions is truly impressive. Your generation is truly set apart by your willingness to speak about problems openly, refusal to simply put up with them, and activist spirit of striving toward a better future. This is crucial for all of us to develop, so that we can all together make our country better.
As the future architects of our nation, I urge you to dream big and strive towards achieving them! You will succeed in this, because the hall is full of unicorns!
Thank you!
