On 27 November 2025, a meeting of representatives of the Conference of Directors of Lithuanian Colleges (LKDK) was held at the Ministry of Education, Science and Sport (ŠMSM) in Vilnius, chaired by Vice-Minister Regina Valutytė. The meeting addressed issues relevant to colleges and set priorities for the working group dedicated to college-related matters.
During the meeting, most attention was given to issues related to the evaluation and funding of Research, Technology and Experimental Development (R&D). College representatives emphasised that uncertainties regarding funding could hinder their activities and leave some colleges “on the sidelines.” Possible solutions were discussed, including reducing R&D requirements, opportunities to implement professional Master’s studies, and cooperation with foreign partners.
The need to update the regulation of short-cycle studies, to review incentive-based funding distribution, and to legalise professional Master’s studies was also discussed. Colleges pointed out the cost differences between college and university studies and stressed the importance of strengthening regional colleges.
Vice-Minister Regina Valutytė presented the current funding situation, noting the tight budget and the possibility of increasing funding for higher education institutions only if the state’s budgetary situation improves. She encouraged colleges to seek alternative ways to increase research funding without linking it to basic funding.
The meeting resulted in a decision to establish a working group that will examine priority issues critical to the college sector: R&D funding and evaluation, regulation of short-cycle studies, distribution of incentive-based funding, and matters related to college names. The group will also explore opportunities for professional Master’s studies, admission requirements, the standard study price, and strengthening colleges in the regions.
The working group’s meetings will help ensure that colleges’ contributions to applied research, regional development, and business challenges are properly recognised and adequately funded.