VU Launches the 2026 Best Lecturer Elections

This year, the elections will be held under a new procedure approved by the VU SR Parliament – the best lecturers will be selected by student representatives themselves.

Previously, the final decision on the best lecturers was made by a University commission. Under the new procedure approved in April this year, the elections are organised by the VU SR Parliament: students nominate lecturers, their arguments are taken into account when selecting candidates, and the final decision is made by members of the Parliament through a vote.

“A lecturer can stand out to students for many different reasons. One may spark an interest in their field, while another may encourage students to ask questions or provide feedback that helps them understand how they can improve. We want to hear about these specific experiences because this year it is the student representatives who will decide which lecturers are selected as the best,” says Rokas Urbonas, VU SR Academic Affairs Coordinator.

Students’ experiences at the heart of candidate selection

Until 25 October, every VU student can nominate a lecturer whose classes sparked their interest, encouraged them to ask questions or helped them discover a new perspective on the subject they were studying. When submitting a nomination, students are encouraged to explain what made the lecturer’s teaching stand out. Specific examples will help student representatives assess the nominations.

After the nomination period ends, the chairpersons of VU SR units will select no more than three candidates from each VU core academic unit and submit them to the VU SR Parliament by 1 November. The selection will take into account the arguments provided by students, the teaching quality criteria set out in the election procedure and the results of University student surveys.

The final decision will be made by the VU SR Parliament

On 18 November, the VU SR Parliament will consider the submitted candidates and select the best lecturers through a vote. The assessment will consider how lecturers apply student-centred learning methods and assessment approaches, provide feedback and create an environment conducive to learning.

Students’ opinions are important throughout the entire election process – from the first nomination to the final decision. By sharing their experiences, students help highlight teaching practices that contribute to the quality of studies.

“This year, students have the opportunity not only to nominate a lecturer but also, through their elected representatives, to make the final decision. I therefore encourage students to explain in their nominations what specifically that person changed about their study experience,” says R. Urbonas.

Lecturers can be nominated until 25 October by completing the nomination form.