Researcher Kristīne Blumfelde-Rutka Presents RSU’s Sustainability Progress

From 24 to 28 March, Kristīne Blumfelde-Rutka — lecturer and researcher at the RSU Faculty of Social Sciences, PhD candidate, and sustainability expert at the RSU Rector’s Governance Office — represented Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU) at the International Staff Training Week hosted by the University of Marburg in Germany. The event brought together representatives from over 15 universities from across the globe.

This year’s seminar focused on the Contribution of Higher Education Institutions in Sustainability Transformation – Navigating the Tension between Path Dependencies and Change, aiming to explore solutions for balancing traditional institutional practices with the urgent need for transformation. Participants discussed various strategies used to promote sustainability in universities and shared practical solutions.

Founded in 1527, the University of Marburg is one of Germany’s oldest universities. Located in the federal state of Hesse, the city of Marburg is known for its medieval architecture. The university is committed to creating a sustainable future that takes into account the needs of both present and future generations. This approach fosters a responsible and informed society capable of addressing global environmental and social challenges. The university integrates sustainability principles into its academic and administrative activities and actively works to implement energy-efficient solutions to reduce consumption and promote environmentally friendly practices. It also supports sustainable education by offering courses and research programs focused on climate change, environmental protection, and social responsibility. The University of Marburg also collaborates with local and international organisations to promote sustainable practices and innovation.

At the event, Blumfelde-Rutka (pictured below) represented RSU for the second consecutive year, presenting the university’s progress in promoting sustainability. She highlighted RSU’s work in establishing effective governance, optimising resource use, reducing waste and climate-related risks, and advancing sustainable education, innovation, digitalisation, and research.

Kristīne Blumfelde-Rutka emphasises that her ERASMUS mobility experience provided valuable knowledge and skills to continue contributing to RSU’s internal working group on sustainable development. One of the key outcomes of the visit was the establishment of a network of contacts with 17 higher education institutions worldwide.

Participants of the International Staff Training Week