The 38th Biennial ISSR Conference “Religion, Migration, and Conflicts in Polarised Societies”
COST Action COREnet, International Society for the Sociology of Religion ir Vytauto Didžiojo universiteto V. Kavolis Transdisciplinary Research Institute are organising an international conference titled “Religion, Migration, and Conflicts in Polarised Societies” on June 30 – July 4, 2025, at Vytautas Magnus University, Kaunas, Lithuania.
About the conference
We live in a globalized world shaped by migration, geopolitical crises, and social polarization. Religion is closely entangled with these changes. Linking up with the theoretical debates in the sociology of religion about the role of religion in public life, we invite scholars to reconsider how religion, in terms of religious practices, discourses, imaginaries, organizations, and individuals, is involved in the context of a currently polarized society.
More information and registration.
Main locations and venues for the conference:
Vytautas Magnus University, V. Putvinskio str. 23;
Vytautas Magnus University Great Hall – S. Daukanto str. 28.
The conference is co-organised by the International Society for the Sociology of Religion (ISSR), COST Action 20107 “Connecting Theory and Practical Issues of Migration and Religious Diversity” (COREnet) and V. Kavolis Transdisciplinary Research Institute, Vytautas Magnus University.
This event is one of the activities of the project “Strengthening of R&D activities of the Vytautas Kavolis Transdisciplinary Institute of Social and Humanities Sciences (SOCMTEP)”. The project is financed by the Lithuanian Science Council and the Ministry of Education, Science and Sports of the Republic of Lithuania, contract no. S-A-UEI-23-13 (12/27/2023). Funding program – “University Excellence Initiative” (No. V-940).
Next Chapter: Opportunities for VMU Graduates | Webinar
The VMU International Cooperation Department cordially invites all international soon-to-be graduates to an important webinar, “Next Chapter: Opportunities for VMU Graduates.” This online event is designed to provide future graduates with key information to ensure a smooth transition into the next stage of their academic and professional lives.
Date: Thursday, June 5
Time: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM (EEST)
Platform: Microsoft Teams
Who Should Attend:
- Soon-to-be VMU graduates
- Current students interested in planning for life after graduation
- VMU alumni from previous years
Please register here to secure your spot.
Agenda:
- 10:00 – 10:05 Introduction
- 10:05 – 10:15 Admission to Master’s Degree Programmes for Bachelor’s Graduates
- 10:15 – 10:25 PhD Study Opportunities at Vytautas Magnus University for Master’s Graduates
- 10:25 – 10:35 Alumni Platform and Activities/Unibuddy Ambassadors/DONA
- 10:35 – 10:45 Temporary Residence Permits (TRP) for Graduates and Other Migration Questions
- 10:45 – 10:55 Career Opportunities for Graduates
- 10:55 – 11:00 Questions and Answers
We look forward to welcoming you to this informative session!
Hege Høyer Leivestad: A Visit to Boomtown: The Clashing Scales of Globalization
The lecture will be delivered by Assoc. Prof. Hege Høyer Leivestad who for many years was Thomas Hylland Eriksen’s colleague at the University of Oslo, Department of Social Anthropology.
In the lecture titled „A Visit to Boomtown: The Clashing Scales of Globalization,” Dr. Leivestad will reflect on Eriksen’s influential academic contributions and enduring legacy. His groundbreaking work on ethnicity, identity nationalism, globalization, and the environment studies has profoundly shaped anthropological scholarship and public debate in Norway and far beyond. In recent years, Eriksen explored the tension between growth and sustainability, conceptualized as the clashing scales of the globalized world. Drawing on his ethnographic studies of the Australian industrial town of Gladstone, Dr. Leivestad will use this lens to discuss the pressing social, political, and ecological challenges that define our era.
Professor Thomas Hylland Eriksen, one of Europe’s most prominent anthropologists, visited Lithuania three times, first, by joining the anthropological conference in 2009 at the University of Klaipeda and the last in 2018, by leading the graduate students workshop at Vytautas Magnus University in Kaunas. This visit, full of inspiring lectures and discussions, left a lasting impression on our academic community.
Thomas Hylland Eriksen Memorial Lecture is to commemorate his remarkable legacy and eye-opening contributions to the field of social anthropology in Lithuania.
The event is part of the Scandinavian Days programme in Kaunas.
Effective Science Communication with Social Media
The Transform4Europe Alliance invites students, researchers and faculty members across the alliance to apply for two science communication workshops (webinars) that aim to enhance their science communication skills.
On Tuesday 22 April, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. (Lithuania time), webinar Effective Science Communication with Social Media will offer tips and tricks for effective and creative communication on social media. This workshop will discuss practical ways to create engaging and accessible science communication. All experience levels are welcome. The webinar’s trainers will be Karin Marinič, Digital Communications Editor (University of Primorska) and Amy Simmons, Assistant Researcher (University of Primorska) and Professional Associate for Public Relations (InnoRenew CoE).
The link to the seminars will be provided to the participants after registration.
Research Data Sharing as Part of Open Science Communication
The Transform4Europe Alliance invites students, researchers and faculty members across the alliance to apply for two science communication workshops (webinars) that aim to enhance their science communication skills.
On Thursday 10 April, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. (Lithuania time), webinar Research Data Sharing as Part of Open Science Communication will be held. This workshop explores effective research data sharing, covering repositories, visibility strategies, and ethical considerations. Participants will learn FAIR data principles, licensing, and compliance to maximize transparency, accessibility, and impact, ensuring their research contributes meaningfully to Open Science and diverse audiences. The trainer of the webinar will be Assist. Prof. Ana Slavec from the University of Primorska.
The link to the seminars will be provided to the participants after registration.
Alumni Talk Vol.2: Finding Work in Lithuania: How Much Does Language Matter?
The VMU International Cooperation Department invites you to an alumni talk on: Finding Work in Lithuania: How Much Does Language Matter?
Join us for two online sessions via MS Teams on April 1 and April 3, where you will have the chance to meet six VMU alumni who are working both in Lithuania and abroad.
They will share valuable insights on securing internships, overcoming language barriers, effective job search strategies, and how to successfully land a job as an international student or graduate.
April 3 (Thursday), 13:30–14:30 – Talk with alumni from Sign On Tab, FloHealth, and a learning service specialist.
Meet the speakers
Ema Lev, from Bulgaria, graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in the program Society, Culture, and Communication in 2022. She will talk about her internships during her studies and her job search after graduation. She secured an internship at Telesoftas and later transitioned into a full-time position as a Copywriter. Nowadays, she works as a Learning Service Specialist (also known as a trainer), onboarding new hires at a service company and upskilling them as necessary for different projects. Ema says: “I work with people from various cultures and backgrounds, which is why I definitely understand the importance of language when it comes to job search.”
Ema has always been active and eager to share and contribute to the VMU community. She has already shared her tips with current international students, aimed at empowering others to take advantage of student opportunities for growth and to build a solid foundation for future employment.
Rakshana Alexander, originally from India, graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology from VMU in 2022. Rakshana has been working as a Sales Development Representative at Sign On Tab since July 2023. Before that, she gained experience at the Center for Physical Sciences and Technology, AbBaltis, Biomapas, and Genie Biotech.
Before, Rakshana shared her job-search tips with graduates and students in this short article.
Tetiana Abramtsova, from Ukraine, graduated in 2024 from the Bachelor’s programme in International Politics and Development Studies. In March 2024, Tetiana launched the Utopia Club Podcast. Recently, Tetiana joined the team at FloHealth as an Accounts Payable Accountant.
Tetiana has remained actively involved in VMU life even after graduation, contributing to student and alumni activities. For example, she shared her experience and insights during the Alumni Day discussion in 2024 titled “Liberal Arts: Navigating Careers, Personal Growth, and the AI Era,” where she spoke about her experience during COVID, the podcast launch, and other challenges that shaped her personality.
It’s a great opportunity to network, gain insights, and receive advice.
The next edition of the event is scheduled for April 1. Learn more here.
Alumni Talk Vol.1: Finding Work in Lithuania: How Much Does Language Matter?
The VMU International Cooperation Department invites you to an alumni talk on: Finding Work in Lithuania: How Much Does Language Matter?
Join us for two online events via MS Teams on April 1 and April 3 to meet six VMU alumni working in Lithuania and abroad.
They’ll share insights on finding internships, overcoming language barriers, job search strategies, and how to secure a job as an international student or graduate.
April 1 (Tuesday), 15:00–16:00 – Talk with alumni from a language school in Kaunas, Oxylabs, and Guidehouse.
Meet the speakers
Minaya Huseynova, originally from Azerbaijan, graduated in 2024 with a Master’s degree in Education Management. Since then, she has been working as an English teacher at Intellectus Language School in Kaunas and recently joined Queen Marta’s International School as a part-time teacher. In her talk, Minaya will share her job search journey, her approach to language learning, and key insights from her current roles. Alongside her teaching work, she’s also volunteering remotely as an HR Assistant with the NGO Arcadia.
Jemima Rodrigues, from India, graduated in 2022 with a Bachelor’s degree in International Politics and Development Studies, and in 2024, she completed a double Master’s degree in Marketing and International Commerce from Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium, and Vytautas Magnus University, Lithuania. She is currently working in Strategic Partnerships at Oxylabs.io, where she drives data-driven outbound campaigns and builds strong client relationships. Previously, she worked as a Lead Research Specialist at Whatagraph, focusing on quality assurance in lead generation and delivering impactful insights for B2B growth. At the event, she will share what helped her secure internships and full-time jobs, along with insights from her experience.
Vasil Treska, from Albania, graduated in 2022 from the Bachelor’s program in World Politics and Economy. During his studies, Vasil completed internships at the Kaunas Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Crafts, the Center for Security Analyses and Prevention, and Vision Factory. He worked as a Customer Support Specialist and later as a Senior Customer Support Agent at Planas Huliganas. Currently, he works at Guidehouse as a Lead Analyst in the Anti-Money Laundering field. He will share insights on the importance of gaining experience during studies, job-search tips, and his current role, including what it’s like to work in an international team.
It’s a great opportunity to network, gain insights, and receive advice.
The next edition of the event will be on April 3rd. Learn more here.
How to Boost Your Career Through LinkedIn | Towards Yourself’25: Business Starts with You
Led by Valeria Burlachenko, Head of a Recruitment Department and VMU alumna, this seminar will explore the power of LinkedIn in career advancement. Participants will learn about the importance of personal branding, how to create a strong LinkedIn presence, and practical tips for job searching. The session will also cover career development strategies across different fields and the role of self-assessment in finding the right job. With extensive experience in HR and a passion for helping people land their dream jobs, the lecturer will provide valuable insights and actionable advice for building a successful career through LinkedIn.
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This seminar is one of the meetings in the series of remote informal seminars “Towards Yourself’25: Business Starts with You” organized by the VMU Career Center. In March and April, we invite you to listen to free remote seminars where professionals from various fields will explore how to develop a business mindset, how to create a personal brand, and why it’s important to be able to “sell” your skills to potential employers. The seminars will discuss self-confidence and ways to leverage your strengths in order to achieve professional or business goals. We also invite students and graduates to take advantage of the virtual “CV Clinic” – send your resumes to cv@vdu.lt and receive expert advice on how to improve them.
Establishment of Small and Micro Businesses in Lithuania | Towards Yourself’25: Business Starts with You
The seminar, led by iFuture Investments financial consultant Paulius Naudžiūnas, will cover various independent business structures, comparing the individual activity certificate, business certificate, and small partnership models. Participants will learn about the key differences, advantages, and considerations of each form to determine the most suitable option for their needs. With 1.5 years of experience helping people navigate the Lithuanian financial system and improve their financial well-being, the lecturer will provide valuable insights into creating financial security through the right business model.
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This seminar is one of the meetings in the series of remote informal seminars “Towards Yourself’25: Business Starts with You” organized by the VMU Career Center. In March and April, we invite you to listen to free remote seminars where professionals from various fields will explore how to develop a business mindset, how to create a personal brand, and why it’s important to be able to “sell” your skills to potential employers. The seminars will discuss self-confidence and ways to leverage your strengths in order to achieve professional or business goals. We also invite students and graduates to take advantage of the virtual “CV Clinic” – send your resumes to cv@vdu.lt and receive expert advice on how to improve them.
Scanning Opportunities: VMU Alumni on Startups & Entrepreneurship | Towards Yourself’25: Bussiness Starts with You
As the topic of entrepreneurship is closely connected to our international graduates, VMU alumni and the International Cooperation Department are joining Towards Yourself’25, the Career Centre’s event series, by offering students and graduates an online meeting with international alumni. This discussion will cover topics such as entrepreneurship, starting a business, launching startups, and insights into career paths after graduation.
Meet the Speakers:
Hüseyin Oğrak from Turkey. Alumnus of the Marketing and International Commerce Master’s programme (2019). Currently, he works as the Head of PPC at Hostinger.
“I will share insights about Hostinger Horizons, an AI-powered platform that helps entrepreneurs, creators, students, and academics build a strong online presence and create web apps. With easy-to-use features and simple hosting, Hostinger Horizons allows you to quickly build personal blogs, online stores, or research platforms—so you can focus on your ideas and projects without the technical hassle.”
Aaron Thomas from India. Master’s graduate from VMU in Molecular Biology with Biotechnology (2024).
“I am currently launching a startup in Lithuania focused on sustainability and waste tech, leveraging AI-driven solutions. My goal is to make a meaningful impact in the region by addressing waste management challenges in an innovative way while fostering strong Lithuanian collaboration. I would love the opportunity to present my idea at VMU to raise seed funding for my startup and explore ways to give back to the university. I believe this could help strengthen collaboration between students, faculty, and the broader Lithuanian innovation ecosystem.”
Lakshya Dave from India. Alumnus of the Applied English Linguistics MA programme (2022), specializing in the Fintech and Web3 sectors. He is a strong advocate for leveraging AI to drive innovation while considering its potential risks.
Currently, he works as the Senior Marketing Manager at CapitalBox, where he focuses on driving growth through strategic affiliate partnerships, optimizing paid channels (Google, Bing, Meta), and refining social media strategies for organic lead acquisition. “My world revolves around finance, fintech marketing, securities and exchange, and renewable energy infrastructure. I would be happy to share my experience with the VMU community.”
Why Attend?
You will learn from their experiences about entrepreneurship, the right mindset, launching startups, and practical steps to start or grow your business. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and explore career possibilities!
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You can learn more about Towards Yourself’25: Business Starts with You here.