You have to love numbers! Anniversary conversation with Record Keeper for Educational Work Elita Zvidriņa

Photos: Courtesty of RSU Elita Zvidriņa

Behind every successful university are not only students and lecturers but also dedicated and responsible staff whose daily work ensures the smooth running of academic processes. Elita Zvidriņa, who recently celebrated a milestone anniversary, has been working at Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU) for over 15 years, ensuring that documentation is accurate, processes are well-organised, and teaching staff receive their remuneration on time.

She recalls the days when everything had to be done manually and explains how digitisation has simplified her work. However, what inspires her most is her deep connection to the university—a place where she not only works but truly feels at home.

From the left: RSU Rector Prof. Aigars Pētersons, Elita Zvidriņa, Vice-Rector for Health Studies Andris Skride, Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs Dins Šmits

Looking back on this milestone, can you remember how you started working at RSU? What were your first impressions?

I started working at RSU in 2006. I was in a different department at first.

In the beginning, I wrote everything down to make sense of the processes, and gradually, the job became easier. My current position became available after my colleague Agnese went on maternity leave in December. She showed me everything before leaving. It was challenging at first, but over time, I got used to it.

What were your initial job responsibilities?

At that time, the workload was much lighter than it is now. My main responsibility was accounting for lecturers' work hours. We had to create work reports containing personal identification numbers, which was standard practice back then. Today, everything is strictly regulated, and the use of personal IDs has been significantly restricted.

Back then, all documents had to be copied and stored in paper format, which was both time-consuming and resource-intensive. We had to prepare acceptance and handover reports, issue salary decrees, and monitor payment processes. Ensuring accuracy was crucial, as timely salary processing depended on the correctness of our work.

How has your work changed over the years?

Technology has brought significant improvements. In the past, everything had to be written by hand, whereas now systems automatically generate reports. This has made our work much easier and reduced the chances of errors. 

At first, adapting to new digital tools seemed difficult, but now it's clear that moving towards automation was the right decision.

Your work requires a high level of precision. How do you ensure accuracy?

Precision is essential because errors can affect both students and faculty. I thoroughly review documents, compare them with study plans, and adjust any inconsistencies. In the past, I had to manually verify each personal identification number, but now the system does it automatically.

Additionally, lecturers must also follow certain regulations. For example, they cannot receive payment for lectures during sick leave, as everything is registered in the system.

How has it been being part of the RSU team?

I was welcomed warmly. RSU has a friendly and respectful atmosphere. Professors treat everyone as equals, which fosters a positive working environment.

I truly feel like I belong here.

I’ve always made an effort to participate in university events, such as the spring cleanup days (talkas), academic balls, and other social gatherings. These activities help build a sense of community.

I also want to mention RSU’s commitment to accessibility. While other universities were still considering it, RSU had already ensured accessibility for people using wheelchairs. Thanks to this, my youngest son, Mārtiņš, was able to complete his law degree at RSU.

What message would you like to share with your colleagues?

Keep growing and improving! It’s important to be supportive and approachable. I am grateful to be working with such professional and kind colleagues.