Historical Moments: Vilnius University Celebrates 30 Years of the Student Procession Tradition

This September will mark the 30th anniversary of the boisterous and vibrant procession in which students, teaching staff, and other members of the Vilnius University (VU) community march together down Gediminas Avenue in Vilnius. Over the years, it has become a key element of the 1 September events in Lithuania’s capital. As we celebrate its anniversary, let us reflect on the origins of this tradition.

The idea of the Renovatio Studiorum parade first came to light in 1994 when Prof. Rolandas Pavilionis, the then VU Rector, proposed to Sigitas Sunelaitis, who was responsible for managing the University’s affairs, the idea of organising a University-wide procession along the city’s main street.

Interestingly, the very first parade took place on 16 September to celebrate VU’s 415th anniversary, rather than on 1 September as it does now. The second day of ceremonies concluded with a procession of professors, lecturers, and students along Gediminas Avenue. A year later, in 1995, the march occurred on its current date – the first of September.

The October 1994 issue of the VU journal “Universitas Vilnensis” stated: “a massive crowd of University residents gathered at Žvėrynas Bridge to march past the Seimas towards the central premises of VU. The wind orchestra “Trimitas” led the parade, followed by the Rector, professors, and representatives of the University faculties. The procession assembled in the Grand Courtyard, where the Rector addressed the students to a rousing ovation. Later, the audience enjoyed students’ improvised plays parodying various stages of the University’s history, and the crowd appreciated the folklore ensemble performances.”

A new tradition was established that same year: an annual celebration in the University’s Grand Courtyard. Prior to that, the new academic year used to be welcomed at the Palace of Concerts and Sports in a joint event with other higher education institutions of the capital.

“I then suggested to the Rector that we should try to host the celebration in our stunning Grand Courtyard, and he promptly asked me to determine its capacity. Hell, I thought, I bet it can fit a fair few folk! And so we all gathered in that courtyard,” Sigitas Sunelaitis reflected in the 2017 VU news.
After three years of absence, Kaunas Faculty joined the annual September procession in Vilnius, too – University community members from Kaunas still foster this tradition to this day. The first time the entire VU community went to Kaunas was in October 1999, when a boisterous crowd marched down Laisvės Avenue to the Kaunas Faculty of Humanities on Muitinės Street to celebrate its 35th anniversary.

“That’s already history. This situation unfolded two decades ago. Then, after years of turmoil, when the classical university tradition seemed to become a subject of questioning and new universities started to emerge, Vilnius University resiliently reclaimed its status as the country’s leading institution of higher education. This instilled confidence in Kaunas Faculty that the era of tensions and constant attempts to commercialise and liquidate its assets had come to an end. The Faculty consolidated Vilnius University in the Kaunas Region, establishing itself as a trusted partner for education and research,” recalls Prof. Stasys Albinas Girdzijauskas, former Dean of Kaunas Faculty.

According to Assoc. Prof. Kęstutis Driaunys, former Dean of Kaunas Faculty, every time he has participated in the VU procession has evoked a range of feelings: “First of all, it’s a great opportunity to experience the vastness and diversity of the VU community and take pride in being part of it. I feel a strong sense of unity when I see so many people gathered for a common goal. It empowers you to create positive change and make the world a better place. The enthusiasm and energy of the procession participants never fails to inspire me – it’s a powerful moment of union and determination.”

The 2021 Renovatio Studiorum procession saw even more community members after the incorporation of Šiauliai Academy on 1 January. The first extended parade left a lasting impression on Prof. Renata Bilbokaitė, Director of VU Šiauliai Academy:

“It was a delightful experience to witness a thriving crowd of young people marching through the most beautiful part of Vilnius, advocating for education and reminding us that they have actively chosen to pursue their studies! There was a deep feeling of unity and pride in belonging to this big family: though physically distant, we continue our mission in the region as part of the same genealogical family! City residents and visitors join in the fun and enjoyment while watching the parade. It serves as a reminder to each one of us about the vital role of education in our lives,” says the Professor.

The VU community procession is a unique celebration for University students, staff members, alumni, as well as city residents and guests to mark the start of the academic year. The anniversary procession will take place on 2 September 2024.