Consolidation in focus: Insights from the RSU Infrastructure Department

Half a year has already passed since 1 July 2024 when Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU) and the Latvian Academy of Sport Education (LASE) started on their joint path of development, creating a unified health and sport science ecosystem that will ensure high-quality, internationally competitive, research-based higher education and good governance.

Behind these words lies a lot of practical work in the form of time, effort and expertise put in the staff, so that RSU and LASE can work together as cohesively as possible.  We asked representatives from different departments to tell us about their achievements, and we will publish these stories on a weekly basis.

Dainis Zemešs, Director of the RSU Infrastructure Department, describes the work carried out by his department to improve the infrastructure of the building at 333 Brīvības gatve.

Photo: Courtesy of RSU LASE

A significant amount of work was completed before 1 July 2024. The RSU Infrastructure Department conducted an audit, surveyed LASE’s properties and previous construction activities, and compiled and assessed relevant documents. Based on these findings, an action plan was developed, and a Consolidation Commission was established to implement it. A centralised support service request system was introduced, and on-site office hours were provided at 333 Brīvības gatve to ensure direct support for RSU LASE employees. Currently, RSU LASE has access to the same infrastructure services as any other RSU department.

The Infrastructure Department’s primary focus has been on high-priority tasks related to fire safety and evacuation systems. Before taking ownership of the LASE building on 1 July 2024, the State Fire and Rescue Service conducted an inspection and identified the most critical and urgent tasks. It is important to note that the building, which was constructed in 1959, is in poor technical condition and requires improvements. The Infrastructure Department has already completed the priority tasks set by the Service and implemented critical safety improvements. However, more extensive renovations will require significant financial investment, and further decisions will be made after evaluating all aspects. One of the most important investments in LASE’s development in recent years has been a project with EU co-funding to improve the building’s energy efficiency and insulation, as well as the construction of the Sports Healthcare Research Centre. Currently, the department oversees the warranty period for these construction works.

To ensure the safety and functionality of the premises, inspections were carried out to identify non-compliant areas where study activities could not be conducted. Urgent infrastructure repairs were completed where necessary, Wi-Fi coverage was ensured throughout the entire building, and electrical resistance measurements were performed to eliminate fire hazards. Work is ongoing to install a fire alarm and emergency notification system. The outdoor lighting and the fence around the stadium were restored to maintain order in the surrounding area. A major challenge occurred last November when a storm severely damaged the roof. A temporary roof was quickly installed, and this year there are plans to replace the roof on the entire corner section of the building.

After multiple inspections of the LASE dormitory, it was decided that the facility should be closed and students offered accommodation at the RSU dormitory on 3 Hipokrāta iela. Upon evaluating the LASE sports hall, it was concluded that it was unsuitable for sports activities and not cost-effective to maintain during the winter. As a result, the facility was closed for the cold season, and students were provided with study and training opportunities at the Riga National Sports Arena.

To improve student well-being, the shared-use kitchen was renovated and upgraded with sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions, similar to those at 16 Dzirciema iela and 21 Konsula iela. The kitchen is equipped with a drinking water and coffee machine, a microwave oven, and furniture for self-study and relaxation. Work continues on further infrastructure improvements at RSU LASE, including upgrades to the rainwater drainage system and the installation of emergency lighting systems.