On November 22, the annual student scientific conference “Current Issues of Technologies and Business – 2024” was held at the Kaunas University of Technology (KTU) Panevėžys Faculty of Technologies and Business (PFTB). The event brought together students, lecturers, school students, and business representatives to engage in discussions about innovation, scientific research, and creativity. Participants particularly highlighted the inspiring keynote speeches and the creativity of school students presenting their business ideas.
Keynote Speeches: Inspiring Stories and Practical Advice
The keynote session opened with a presentation titled “Knowledge Fosters Courage” by Irmantas Pilis, a theatre actor, curator of the Applied Theatre Studio at the Panevėžys Creativity Center “Pragiedruliai,” theatre teacher, educator, and lecturer. He discussed the importance of courage, shared his personal experiences, and provided valuable advice on successful public speaking. Pilis remarked: “I felt welcomed and warmly received. It’s always a pleasure to return to your events and be a part of them.”
Participants highly appreciated Pilis’ presentation. PFTB master’s student Irma Aukštikalnienė said: “The first speaker, the actor, delivered an extraordinary presentation. I’d suggest inviting him for a longer lecture.” Another student, Justina Mockūnaitė, added: “Irmantas Pilis’ presentation provided many useful tips that I will apply not only in my studies but also in my work.”
During the keynote session, the student company “FROSTIQ” from Panevėžys “Mintis” Engineering Gymnasium presented their project. The young creators shared their experience in developing freeze-dried beetroot soup (šaltibarščiai), a product that garnered interest and positive feedback. Company president Selina Zdanevičiūtė shared: “After our presentation, we held a tasting session, and the smiles on people’s faces proved that our product truly brings joy!”
Entrepreneurship and inspiration continued with a presentation by Kipras Morkūnas, founder of “Mo Barber Shop,” titled “Scissors at School: More Than Just for Paper.” He shared the story of his business journey, which inspired many attendees. Greta Šukienė commented: “The speaker’s simplicity and professionalism were impressive. Success stories must be shared as they inspire others!”
Creativity of School Students Showcased at the Student Company Fair
Before the keynote session and during the coffee break, participants had the opportunity to visit the Junior Achievement fair. School pupils from Panevėžys “Mintis” Engineering Gymnasium and “Saulėtekis” Progymnasium presented their ideas. Companies from “Mintis” showcased projects such as freeze-dried beetroot soup (“FROSTIQ”), unique snack ideas (“Cosmo Bites”), and innovative maps (“AquaMap”). Representing “Saulėtekis” were companies offering innovative shoelaces (“Shining Click”), insect-repellent tablets (“Chemovela”), and eco-friendly balloons containing tree seeds (“Happy Eco”). The “Saulėtekis” companies were accompanied by their economics and entrepreneurship teacher, Agnė Šidlauskaitė.
Selina Zdanevičiūtė, a member of “FROSTIQ,” shared her experience: “After the keynote session, we sold our products at the stand. Visitors praised our work and showed great interest. It was exciting to see newly established companies taking their first steps.”
Economics and entrepreneurship teacher Rita Tėvainienė emphasized the importance of this opportunity for students: “I want to express my gratitude for allowing the students to present their ideas to the university community. This is a formative experience that builds confidence and motivates them to take further steps.” She added: “The blend of innovation and national roots in the beetroot soup project is close to my heart. It’s wonderful to see young students embracing this perspective.”
Section Work: In-Depth Insights and Academic Collaboration
After the keynote session, participants split into sections to present 47 scientific works covering engineering, management, and social sciences. The sections included themes such as “Innovative Management Solutions in Education,” “Economic and Social Responsibility Challenges in Modern Society,” “Business Solutions and Trends,” “Construction Engineering,” and “Construction and Electronics Engineering.”
The conference organizer and Vice Dean for Research, Olga Strikulienė praised the high quality of the presentations: “Each research project revealed new perspectives and sparked meaningful discussions. Curiosity and creativity define the work of our young researchers.”
Master level student Skaistė Nikštelė appreciated the professionalism of the panel members: “The panel questions were clear and insightful, and their advice was very helpful. This was an excellent introduction to presenting final theses.”
This year, KTU PFTB alumni Jurgita Ablėnė, Jolita Šinkūnė, Žilvinas Dirsė, Marius Baranauskas, and Domas Jankevičius enriched the discussions with their insights and experience, contributing to the success of the conference.
Participant Feedback
Participants highlighted the high-quality organization and diverse presentations. Master’s student Laura Samulevičienė said: “The speakers were amazing, and their stories were truly captivating.” Another student, Lina Petrulaitienė, expressed her admiration: “The keynote speeches were particularly inspiring. It’s great to see young people pursuing ambitious goals and achieving them.”
This event left a lasting impression on participants and guests alike, encouraging them to share their success stories and foster creativity. KTU Panevėžys Faculty of Technologies and Business extends heartfelt thanks to all participants, speakers, and organizers for their joint efforts and a memorable event. Once again, the conference proved that academic collaboration can lay the groundwork for creative solutions and new success stories.
