The Practical training project "UpinLT", which began in June 2024, was extended in March 2025, offering foreign students of higher education institutions in Lithuania the opportunity to participate in a nationally-funded internship competition. This initiative ensures the professional and practical integration of international students of the Vilnius Academy of Arts (VDA), actively involving them in internships within a variety of Lithuanian art institutions.
A total of 6 current VDA international students took part in the extended phase of the UpinLT project. These internships were held over a 3-month period—from early March to the end of May—with each participant receiving a monthly scholarship of 650 Eur. This financial support enabled students to fully engage in their practical training while managing academic and professional responsibilities.
Internships were hosted by art galleries, museums, and art associations across Lithuania, offering interns first-hand experience to professional environments in the Lithuanian art sector. Students reported that the internships allowed them to apply the skills they developed during their studies at VDA, deepen their understanding of the history and evolution of Lithuanian art, and enrich their portfolios from a practical approach. Several interns highlighted their increased involvement in exhibition curation, which not only broadened their creative and organizational skillsets but also facilitated meaningful networking with clients and professionals in the field.
Over the course of the "UpinLT" practical training project, spanning from 2024 - 2025, in total 21 VDA international students and graduates successfully completed their internships, with some receiving offers to continue their placements beyond the initial training period. This reflects the programme’s impact in fostering sustainable professional relationships and providing long-term opportunities.
The Vilnius Academy of Arts is proud to have contributed to this meaningful initiative, as it reflects the commitment to enhance international collaboration and support student development. VDA remains dedicated to expanding such opportunities and building a more interconnected, inclusive, and professionally enriching academic environment.
More information about the Practical training project: https://smpf.lrv.lt/lt/projektai/vykstantys-projektai/upinlt-uzsienieciu-praktiku-lietuvoje-programa/
