A grand celebration at Kaunas Žalgiris Arena: over 1,000 Kauno kolegija graduates receive their diplomas
Yesterday, Kaunas Žalgiris Arena hosted a grand ceremony to celebrate more than 1,000 graduates from Kauno kolegija Higher Education Institution, who were awarded their Professional Bachelor’s degrees. This marks the 26th cohort of graduates to complete their studies at the institution.
To the sound of resounding applause in a packed arena, diplomas were presented to students from the fields of medicine, social sciences, arts, technology, engineering, and IT, among others. The ceremony featured a festive musical programme by Martynas Kavaliauskas and the Kaunas ‘Ryby’ Choir.
Director: ‘A diploma is important, but who you have become matters even more‘
‘Today, I see more than just a sea of graduates. I see your dedication, your choices, the challenge of balancing work and study, your small victories, and the moments when you refused to give up. While a diploma is a significant achievement, what matters even more is the person you have become on this journey,’ said Dr Andrius Brusokas, Director of Kauno kolegija.
He noted that while much emphasis is placed on knowledge and practical skills, these only carry true weight when rooted in core values: responsibility, professionalism, openness, initiative, respect, and community spirit.
‘The times we live in remind us that the freedom to learn, create, question, and speak should never be taken for granted. Democracy is not just about institutions; it begins every day with our ability to listen, respect differing opinions, and take responsibility. I wish for you all to be active citizens – that is how not only professions grow, but the nation and Europe as a whole,’ added Dr A. Brusokas.
The Director urged graduates to avoid seeking the easy answers in life and to ask themselves not just what they want to achieve, but what value they can bring to others.
‘Go forth with confidence. Stay responsible, open, and proactive. Build a future that fosters trust, fellowship, and hope,’ he concluded.
An invitation to preserve the human connection in the age of AI
Vytenis Kazlauskas, President of the Alumni Club, reminded graduates that in an era where AI is increasingly present, no technology can replace human connection.
‘AI can advise and assist, but it cannot offer support or a hug when things get truly difficult. A person can,’ V. Kazlauskas remarked.
He also encouraged the new alumni to stay connected with the institution where they gained so much experience: ‘Create, experiment, make mistakes, and learn – go wherever life leads you.’
One chapter ends, a world of opportunity opens
Jonė Vasiliauskaitė, a Sports Management graduate, thanked the lecturers for their expertise and expressed gratitude to parents and classmates for their support.
‘Today marks the end of one chapter and the start of a new one. The future may be uncertain, but it is that very uncertainty that gives us the chance to find our own way and achieve more than we ever imagined,’ she said.
She added that her time at Kauno kolegija taught her far more than what was on the lecture slides: ‘We learned time management, problem-solving, and the importance of perseverance. Our studies may be over, but our opportunities are only just beginning.’
