'The programme gives young people the opportunity to experience modern Lithuania first-hand, including its economy, science and culture. Some participants discover their future here and decide to return for a longer period, so the programme plays an important role in strengthening ties with our communities abroad," says Agila Barzdienė, Vice Minister of the Economy and Innovation.
This year, students completed internships at the Life Sciences Centre of Vilnius University, the Vilnius University Republican Hospital, Invest Lithuania, the Bank of Lithuania, Adform Lithuania, the Department of Environmental Protection, the National Museum of Lithuania, Ignitis and other organisations.
They also visited leading Lithuanian companies such as Teltonika, ADV Defence, Repsense and Elinta, and attended meetings with prominent figures including the Minister of Economy and Innovation, Lukas Savickas; the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Kęstutis Budrys; the First Lady, Diana Nausėdienė; and the Mayor of Vilnius, Valdas Benkunskas.
Goda Misiūnas, an active member of the Lithuanian community in Chicago and a neuroengineering student at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, completed an internship at the Life Sciences Centre at Vilnius University.
'I am extremely grateful to the LESI programme for this experience. I learned a lot here, and the programme helped me to gain a better understanding of how I could continue my studies in the future. It opened up many unexpected opportunities in Lithuania, such as the chance to continue my studies or become involved in the rapidly growing startup ecosystem. I think that after I finish my studies, I might come back,' says Goda Misiūnas.
Greta Latvėnas, a programme participant studying marketing at Michigan State University, also shared her experience. She completed her internship at Invest Lithuania.
'In this job, I had the opportunity to learn firsthand how Lithuania positions itself as a competitive international business centre. I learned how the team attracts global companies, promotes foreign investment and creates high-value jobs in the country. This experience has given me a deeper understanding of Lithuania's economic development strategy, allowing me to compare it with business and investment practices in the United States," she says.
The LESI programme is becoming a platform not only for professional development, but also an important bridge between Lithuania and the Lithuanian diaspora. Upon completing their internships, students gain new knowledge and connections, strengthen their Lithuanian identity and share their experiences with their communities abroad. This contributes to the formation of Lithuania's image and strengthens international relations.
This year, the LESI programme took place from 8 June to 13 July.
