Chronology of Key Events of Riga Technical University

September 2

• The RTU Administration meets first year students at the Colonnade on Ķīpsala Island.
• Anita Straujuma becomes the Executive Director of the RTU Development Fund (DF).

September 3
Professor Jānis Krastiņš, Head of the Chair of History and Theory of Architecture at the Faculty of Architecture (FA) of RTU and Professor Andris Krēsliņš, Senior Researcher of the Chair of Heat Engineering and Technology of the Faculty of Civil Engineering (FCE) receive the major award of the Construction Industry for a lifetime contribution «Pamatakmens» (Foundation Stone).

September 10
Researchers of the Institute for Industrial Electronics and Electrical Engineering of the Faculty of Power and Electrical Engineering (FPEE) present a robust-range robot simulator at the RTU Laboratory building, 1 Paula Valdena iela, Ķīpsala.

September 11
Italian Ambassador to Latvia Sebastiano Fulci and a delegation from the University of Bergamo (Università degli Studi di Bergamo; Italy) visit RTU led by Rector Professor Remo Morzenti Pellegrini.

September 19
In the 11th Paul Walden Symposium Paul Walden Commemorative Medal is presented to RTU Professor, Academician, Deputy Director in scientific work of the Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis (LIOS) Aigars Jirgensons. Commemorative Medal is also awarded to Research Associate of Chair of Organic Chemistry of University of Rostock (Universitaet Rostock; Germany) and internationally renowned researcher in the history of chemistry Gisel Boeck, who receives it on 24 October at the RTU 60th International Scientific Conference in the Section «Materials Science and Applied Chemistry».

September 19–22
The international leading trade fair  «Kind + Jugend» for premium baby and toddler products is held in Cologne, Germany, where Anastasija Ribaka, a student of the Institute of Design Technologies (IDT) of the Faculty of Materials Science and Applied Chemistry (FMSAC), holds a diploma work on multifunctional children’s furniture set «Luni» – nominated for «Kids Design Award 2019».

September 23
With the decision of Senate of RTU (Minutes No. 632), the title of RTU Honorary Alumnus is granted to Chairman of the Management Board, Chief Executive Officer of «Latvenergo AS» Āris Žīgurs.

September 24
Agreement on the establishment of the Baltic Biomaterials Centre of Excellence (BBCE) in Latvia is signed in Brussels. It is formed by RTU, LIOS, Riga Stradiņš University (RSU), RSU Institute of Stomatology, AO Research Institute Davos (ARI) in Switzerland and Biomaterials Centre of Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuernberg (Friedrich-Alexander-Universitaet Erlangen-Nuernberg) in Germany. The contract is signed by BBCE coordinator, RTU Professor Jānis Ločs.

September 26
RTU, Kaunas University of Technology (Kauno technologijos universitetas; Lithuania) and Tallinn University of Technology (Tallinna Tehnikaülikool; Estonia) agree on the establishment of a Knowledge and Innovation Contact Point «EIT RawMaterials Baltic Hub» that will help Baltic scientists and companies create competitive innovations in raw materials.

In September

• RTU climbs 100 places at «QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2020» created by prestigious «QS World University Rankings», occupying 201st–250th place.
• FCE study program «Transport Building» student team, Romāns Kornišovs, Miks Mežvēvers and Kārlis Dedumietis, wins 1st place in 4th International Transport Building Student Olympiad in Minsk, Belarus.
• Solveiga Medne, Principal of RTU Engineering High School (EHS), receives the Award «Balva Cilvēka izaugsmei» (Award for Human Development) for her outstanding contribution to education.
• The work of several students and graduates of RTU is highly appreciated in the competition «Sustainability in Architecture, Construction, Design 2019» in the nomination «Most Sustainable Student Idea 2019». First prize winners are graduates of FA Rūdis Rubenis and Ritvars Krastiņš, as well as Andrejs Domkins and «MeKA» for the exposition «Viedais koks» (Smart Tree). Recognition is also given to the students works of study program «Materials Technologies and Design» of FMSAC IDT:  the use of recycled denim composite material for panel production by Madara Ārente and clothes collection «COLLISION» made from recycled materials by Nadīna Anija Poga and Marta Cimdiņa.

October 1–2
RTU hosts a day of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), where readings and masterclasses is held by guest lecturers from Luebeck University of Applied Sciences (Technische Hochschule Luebeck; Germany), Vilnius Gediminas Technical University (Vilniaus Gedimino Technikos Universitetas; Lithuania), Lund University (Lunds universitet; Sweden) and University of Gaevle (Högskolan i Gävle; Sweden).

October 4

• President of Latvia Egils Levits congratulates RTU EHS pupils who participated in the International Training Olympiads and their teachers: for the Bronze Medal at the Genius International Olympiad – 12th grade pupil Kārlis Rimaševskis (chemistry teacher Laura Fjodorova); for the Certificate of Recognition – 12th grade pupil Uģis Vēvers (biology teacher Dace Bērtule); for the Bronze Medal at the International Informatics Olympiad – 12th grade pupil Kārlis Šusters (computer science teacher Andrejs Liepiņš); for the Bronze Medal at the International Economic Olympiad – graduate Elīza Elizabete Bicāne (Economics teacher Līga Kamola); for the Certificate of Recognition at the International Mathematics Olympiad – graduates Agnis Salmiņš and Artjoms Ubaidullaev (Mathematics teacher Inguna Granta).
• Six universities from Latvian – RTU, LU, RSU, Ventspils University College, Liepaja University and Latvian Maritime Academy – are launching a new project «Innovation Grants for Students».

October 5–6
Expanding into South Asia, RTU is opening two information and study centres in Colombo (Sri Lanka) and Chennai (India) in early October.

October 8

• RTU Rector Academician Leonīds Ribickis and Professor Didier Mineur, Head of International Relations at the Paris Institute of Political Studies (Science Po; Institut d’études politiques de Paris; France) sign an agreement on cooperation and student exchange in the Erasmus+ project.
• Celebrating the 150th Anniversary of university education of architecture in Latvia, works exhibition by students and FA faculty members of the Gold Foundation of the Chair of Fine Arts «Līnija. Forma. Krāsa» (Line. Shape. Colour) and the retrospective exhibition of architectural diploma projects «No zīmuļa līdz datoram» (From pencil-to-computer) as well as a discussion on the future of architectural education are held.

October 9
RTU visit Russian delegation from Pskov State University (PSU; Псковский государственный университет; Russia) under the guidance of Rector’s Acting Duty Officer Professor Natalia Ilyin (Наталья Анатольевна Ильина). RTU and PSU agree to promote cooperation in studies and science.

October 10
The third RTU History Day is taking place. Section of the RTU 60th International Scientific Conference «History of Engineering Sciences and Institutions of Higher Education» unveils the third RTU RCEH Scientific Journal dedicated to the 150th Anniversary of the acquisition of university education in architecture in Latvia. In the afternoon, scientific monograph «Ernst Nauck (1819–1875). First Director of Riga Polytechnicum» in three languages (German, English and Latvian) by Professor Alīda Zigmunde is opened. The event is attended by Eddie Wolfgang Nauck, the great-great-great-grandson of E. Nauck, from Germany.

October 11

• In commemoration of the 157th Anniversary of Riga Technical University and commemoration of founders and former rectors of the university, traditionally flowers are laid in the Great Cemetery, Meža Cemetery and Matīsa Cemetery in Riga at the former rectors resting places. The event was attended by: E. Nauk’s great-great-great-grandson E. W. Nauck, Vice-Rector for Research T. Juhna, Administrative Director J. Šlihte, Student Parliament President K. Rudoviča, Professor M. Šenfelde of the Faculty of Engineering Economics and Management (FEEM) and team of RCEH:  I. Gudro, A. Zigmunde, R. Lapsa, E. Lapsa. 
• RTU Scientific Library receives endowment – research from Latvian born American physicist Juris Upatnieks.

October 14

• RTU 157th Anniversary events are taking place.
• At the plenary session of the 60th International Scientific Conference different awards are presented to scientists: head of the Chair of Building Materials and Products  of FCE Professor Aleksandrs Korjakins receives the title «RTU Scientist of the Year 2019»; Senior Researcher of the Institute of Radioelectronics of the Faculty of Electronics and Telecommunications (FET) Anna Litviņenko receives the award «RTU Young Female Scientist of the Year 2019»; Researcher of Institute of Materials and Structures of FCE Maris Šinka receives the award «RTU Young Scientist of the Year 2019»; Senior Researcher of the Institute of Polymer Materials of FMSAC Jānis Zicāns receives RTU Annual Award for Valorisation 2019; PhD student and researcher of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Transport and Aeronautics (FMETA) Jānis Lungevičs received «RTU Annual Student Award for Valorisation 2019».
• Professor of the University of Houston (USA) Olafs Daugulis and Director of the Electronics Research Institute of the University of Shizuoka (Japan) Professor Hidenori Mimura receive RTU Honorary Doctorates Diplomas at the Senate solemn meeting.
• For the second time RTU honour the best lecturers: FEEM Professor Inga Lapiņa receives «RTU Annual Academic Excellence Award 2019»; FCE lecturer Raivo Kalderauskis receives the award «RTU New Lecturer of the Year 2019»; FEEM  lecturer Aleksandra Mihņenoka and FCE Professor Modris Dobelis receive development grants.
• RTU lecturers who have supported students of RTU EHS are commended: RTU Rector gratefully acknowledges Associate Professor of FCE Linda Mežule, Senior Researcher of FMSAC Dagnija Loča and Senior Researcher of FMSAC Inese Mieriņa; Senior Researcher of the Faculty of Computer Science and Information Technology (FCSIT) Inta Volodko receives gratitude for the organization and conducting of higher mathematics classes;  Professor of FMSAC Svetlana Čornaja receives gratitude for organizing a series of classes in physical chemistry to prepare pupils for the Olympiads.

October 17

• RTU signs a Memorandum of Understanding with the Finnish building materials company «Peikko Group Corporation». Its goal is to build a business partnership with FCE in studies, science and innovation. The Memorandum is also supported and signed by the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA).
• Assistant Professor of FA Dr. arch. Agrita Tipāne receives the Award of Ltd. «ITERA Latvija» for her significant contribution developing the professional qualifications and skills of young architects, for the study of church architecture and for the creation of the Riga Art Nouveau Museum.

October 18

• Celebrating the 150th anniversary of university education in architecture in Latvia, there is a commemoration day for remembrance colleagues at the Cemeteries of Pleskodāle, Raiņa, Meža and Baltezers, the FA Solemn Council, the opening of the book «Arhitektūras izglītībai Latvijā 150» (Architectural Education in Latvia 150) and the meeting of architect graduates «Zīmuļa termiņš» (Pencil Term) takes place.
• Rector Academician Leonīds Ribickis with 86 leading scientists and heads of technology universities from 33 countries participate in the meeting, discussing the challenges of science and technology in the 21st century.
• Annual CESAER (Conference of European Schools for Advanced Engineering Education and Research) and  T. I. M. E. (Top Industrial Managers for Europe) is held at Université Paris-Saclay and CentraleSupélec.

October 18–20
Ķīpsala International Exhibition Centre hosts the exhibition «Design Isle 2019», which is attended by FMSAC IDT, winning three award-wining places at the competition for universities «Dizaina arēna 2019» (Design arena 2019) in the category «Produktu dizains» (Product design).

October 22
Celebrating the 155th Anniversary of the FMETA, a solemn meeting of the Faculty Council takes place.

October 26
Celebrating the 155th Anniversary of the FMETA, there is a solemn ceremony at the Small Guild and the opening of a book «Mašīnzinību, transporta un aeronautikas fakultātei 155» (Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Transport and Aeronautics155).

October 28
RTU Senate (Minutes No. 633):

• on the basis of a decision of the Council of the Faculty of E-Learning Technologies and Humanities (FETH), Professor Marina Platonova is approved for a second term as the Faculty Dean;
• approve regulations of RTU Awards and Diplomas;
• approves the donation – construction of the summer house (UB-03), materials and installation of the summer house in the real estate owned by RTU – «Ronīši» – acceptance from Ltd. «Akords U».

In October

• RTU ranks 54th in the «QS Emerging Europe and Central Asia (ECCA) 2020» ranking, ascending three places in a year. The ECCA is a ranking of regional universities in Europe and Central Asia and includes a total of 350 leading universities in the region.
• October is announced as Science Month with six different science-related events.
• Ņikita Kuzmins student of FMETA receives the Scholarship of American Latvians Valija and Modris Galenieki.
• FEEM and RTU Riga Business School (RBS) retain their place in the Four Palms League for the fourth consecutive year in the «Eduniversal» International University and Business School Ranking, which includes 200 business schools of outstanding and significant international influence. The FEEM Masters Program «Inovācijas un uzņēmējdarbība» (Innovation and Business) has been rated the best in Eastern Europe.

November 4–9
RTU Electronics Week is taking place.

November 7
Celebrating the Centenary of Latvia’s Customs and the 25th Anniversary of Customs Education, the SRS Customs Board and Institute of International Economic Relations and Customs (SESMI) of FEEM are organizing a conference «Vai muita ir gatava rītdienai» (Shaping a Smarter Future of Customs).

November 8

• The opening ceremony of the Confucius Class of RTU takes place in the Small Hall of RTU at 1 Kaļķu Street. The Confucius Class of RTU is a branch of the Confucius Institute and is located at FETH at 1 Kronvalda Boulevard. The event is attended by Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Latvia Liang Jianquan, Director (in Latvia) of the Confucius Institute of the University of Latvia Pēteris Pildegovičs and Director (in China) of the same Shang Quanyu.
• By RTU Rector's order no. 01000-1.1-e/187 RTU Council of Academics was established.

November 9
At the contest «BAUA Awards 19'», PhD student of FA Matijs Babris receives a recognition on his Master’s thesis «Būves kokos dabas tūrisma veicināšanai. Strenču ūdens tūrisma centrs» (Buildings in trees to promote nature tourism. Strenči Water Tourism Centre) from the Baltic Architects Unions Association (BAUA).

November 11

• Celebrating the Centenary of Latvian War of Independence and honouring the fighters, the concert «For Latvia and Courage» of men’s choir «Gaudeamus» take place in the Great Hall of the Riga Technical University at 1 Kaļķu Street.
• RTU Student Theatre «Kamertonis» (directed by Ludmila Stančika) wins the «Grand Prix» at the international student theatre festival «Debiut», which takes place from 11th to 15th November in Batumi, Georgia.

November 11–23
RTU delegation visits eight universities in three Latin American countries, while visiting, Rector Academician Leonīds Ribickis signs a global cooperation agreement with Albert Einstein University in Mexico.

November 14
In the paper bridge design competition organized by the FCE Student Council, the team «Šneks» (Mārtiņš Arājs, Linards Hremenkins, Valts Segliņš) takes the first place in the category of student bridges. The built-in bridge can withstand a load of 139.9 kilograms.

November 15
In the Exhibition Hall of the RCEH History Museum, the Institute of Humanities (IH) of FETH celebrates its 25th Anniversary and unveils the scientific monograph «Skolotāju profesionālā identitāte» (Teacher Professional Identity) whose scientific editor is IH Director Associate Professor Airisa Šteinberga.

November 18
Professor of FMSAC and Academician Valdis Kampars receives the highest state award – the Order of Three Stars.

November 21
FCSIT Associate Professor Ērika Nazaruka, FMSAC Associate Professor Andris Šutka and Senior Researcher Dagnija Loča and FCE Senior Researcher Sandris Ručevskis are elected as Corresponding Members of the Latvian Academy of Sciences (LAS).

November 22
Commemorating the 100th Anniversary of Latvia’s Customs, Director of SESMI Aivars Vilnis Krastiņš and Assistant Professor Normunds Rudzītis receive an award for a significant contribution to the development of the customs service – anniversary sign – «Latvijas muitai 100» (the Latvia’s Customs 100).

November 22–23
In the 30th Latvian Universidad swimming competition, RTU swimmers win the first place among the men.

November 25

• RTU EHS is recognized as the Best School in the Friendly Call Fund’s Best School Ranking by the City Secondary School Group and receives awards in a number of further nominations – for student achievement in mathematics, Latvian and nature science.
• The Senate (Minutes No. 634) approves Professor Juris Smirnovs as the Dean of BIF for a second term.
• In the Fashion Designers Competition «Meringue» master student of FMSAC IDT Kristīne Zariņa wins the award from magazine «Pastaiga».

November 27
RTU is visited by a delegation of Parliament of Indonesian North Sulawesi Province led by its Speaker Andrei Angouw and Honorary Consul of the Republic of Latvia in Indonesia Ayub Junus. During the meeting, Deputy Rector for International Academic Cooperation and Studies I. Tipāns and A. Junus sign an agreement in which RTU expresses its commitment to provide Indonesian university education institutions with information on study opportunities at RTU.

November 30
RTU chess players win convincingly in the Latvian Club Cup 2019, taking first place and outscoring their followers by four points; this is the record for nine years in the history of the Latvian Club Cup.

In November
An interdisciplinary national working group of the European Centre for Nuclear Research (CERN) is being set up to promote cooperation between Latvian research institutions and business and CERN by engaging in scientific research, experiments and projects. Latvia plans to become an Associate Member of CERN in 2021.

December 5

• In the «GreenMetric» ranking of green politics and sustainability, RTU ranks among the 100 greenest universities in the world, ranking 93rd–95th. place. The overall score is the same for two Spanish universities. This is a significant increase compared to 2018, when RTU ranked 128th place. RTU is the only university education institution in Latvia that is rated so highly.
• 4th-year clothing design specialization students of FMSAC IDT study program «Materiālu tehnoloģija un dizains» (Material Technology and Design) Marta Cimdiņa and Nadīna Anija Poga with their clothes’ collection «Collision» are awarded 2nd place in the fashion show «Dizaino Dienas» organized by Kaunas University of Technology students’ council.

December 8
RTU Frisbee team won the 1st place in the Latvian Student Championship.

December 11–13

• On December 11–13, representatives of the Faculty of Engineering - University of Strathclyde in UK – Reader in Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Dr James Irvine and International Development Manager, Ms Jennifer Gazzard – visited RTU to sign cooperation agreement that provides implementation of joint master study program in the field of electronics and telecommunications.
• During the visit, they held meetings with the Rector of RTU, Professor Leonids Ribickis, management, academic staff and students of the Faculty of Electronics and Telecommunications and management of the International Cooperation and Foreign Students Department.

December 12
Professor Dagnija Blumberga, Director of Institute of Energy Systems and Environment (IESE) of FPEE receives an Award named by f Professor Alfrēds Vītols for outstanding contribution and lifelong contribution to the Latvian energy industry. Professor Ivars Veidenbergs of IESE receives the «Annual Award» for significant contribution in energetics. RTU new scientists also receive awards for success in energetics: researcher Kaspars Kroičs of Institute of Industrial Electronics and Electrical Engineering, researcher Vladmirs Kirssanovs of IESE and new Phd students – Aivis Ašmanis, Viesturs Zimackis, Deniss Bezrukovs, Artis Riepnieks All awards are grated by the LAS and «Latvenergo». The award ceremony takes place at RTU EHS hall at 1 Kronvalda Boulevard.

December 14
Lauris Kaufmanis, a third-year student of FCE at startup with Oskars Ķibermanis piloted crew, along with Arvis Vilkastis and Matīsse Mikne, takes 2nd place in the World Cup first stage in bobsleigh which takes place in Lake Placid (USA).

December 19
The award of Latvian-born Civil Engineer Guntis Bole is given to FA graduate Raivis Jānis Mucenieks and the student of FCE Marta Amoliņa; the premium of Professor Ivars Strautmanis receives FA graduate Elza Taube.

December 22
RTU volleyball team «RTU / Border-guard» becomes Latvian Cup winners.

In December
Among the ten most significant achievements of Latvian science in 2019, LAS also names RTU scientists who worked out the new DC power supply system for producing industry (authors: LAS Academician Dr. habil. sc. ing. Leonīds Ribickis, Dr. sc. ing. Oskars Krievs, Dr. sc. ing. Pēteris Apse-Apsītis, Dr. sc. ing. Dāvis Meike, Dr. sc. ing. Andrejs Stepanovs, Mg. sc. ing. Ansis Avotiņš, Mg. sc ing. Armands Šenfelds, Mg. sc ing. Kristaps Vītols, Mg. sc. ing. Maksims Vorobjovs, Mg. sc. ing. Mārcis Priedītis, Mg. sc. ing. Artūrs Paugurs, Mg. sc. ing. Oskars Bormanis).

January 14
Master students of FMSAC are awarded LAS prizes: Miks Puriņš – received Award named by Emīlija Gudriniece; Renāte Melngaile – received Awards named by Mārtiņš Straumanis and Alfrēds Ieviņš; Lūkass Tomass Lukaševics – Young Scientists Award. The LAS Young Scientists Award was also awarded to RTU EHS physics teacher Virgīnija Vītola.

January 17
The first discussion on «Individual Professional Development Choices and Influencing Aspects» at the educational forum «Education System Goal: Future Perspective» at the Saeima Baltic Hall  take place organized by Saeima Education, Culture and Science Commission, Ministry of Education and Science and RTU.

January 25
Brothers Andris Šics and Juris Šics triumph at the important stage of the World Cup in luge competition between two teams. Elīza Cauce wins the bronze in the ladies’ race. Both sleighs are embellished by the RTU coat of arms, as they have been improved by RTU scientists, who have been cooperating with athletes since 2017.

January 27
With the decision of Senate of RTU (Minutes No. 636) the names of RTU Daugavpils Affiliate, Cēsis Affiliate, Liepāja Affiliate and Ventspils Affiliate were changed and Regulations of RTU Daugavpils (including – Cēsis, Liepāja and Ventspils) Study and Science Centres have been approved.

January 28
Graduates and teachers of RTU EHS receive the awards of the Friendly Calling Fund: in the nomination «Graduate» the certificate of recognition is given to Agnis Salmiņš and Artem Ubaidullajev, Elīza Elizabete Bicāne receives the Bronze Medal; mathematics teacher Inguna Granta and economics teacher Līga Kamola are awarded the title «Teacher».

January 29
The President of Latvia Egils Levits, representative of the European Commission Directorate General for Research and Innovation, Widening Stefan Weiers and RTU Rector Academician Leonīds Ribickis open the project of the Baltic Biomaterials Centre of Excellence (BBCE) at the premises of FMSAC.

In January

• The International Water Association’s (IWA) magazine recognizes RTU scientists Sanda Dejus, Alīna Neščerecka, Ģirts Kurcalts and Tālis Juhna as the best water supply research publication «Detection of drinking water contamination event with Mahalanobis distance method, using on-line monitoring sensors and manual measurement data».
• Associate Professor at the IDT of FMSAC, Coach of RTU Sports Centre Uģis Briedis (in nomination «Senior 2019») and fourth-year student of FCE Reinis Krauklis (in nomination «Player of the Year 2019») receive the Latvian Badminton Federation’s Annual Awards. RTU is also commended as the leader of the Latvian Badminton in Ranking of 2019.

February 2
RTU badmintonists win awards at Latvian Championship: FET third-year student Teodors Kerimovs in pair with Jekaterina Romanova become Latvian Champion in mixed doubles; paired with Ardis Daniels Bedrītis,  T. Kerimovs win 3rd in men’s doubles; FCE fourth-year student Reinis Krauklis becomes vice champion, winning 2nd place in singles, 2nd place in doubles with FEEM graduate Toms Preinbergs  and 2nd place in mixed doubles with Diāna Stognija.

February 5
RTU is visited by delegation of Kumamoto University (Japan) led by Vice-Rector for Studies, Professor Dr. Mikio Furushima.

February 13
RTU is visited by Ambassador of Mexico Francisco Eduardo del Río López and Honorary Consul of Mexico Carlos Arredondo Martinez.

February 18
Six Latvian secondary school pupils go to the world’s largest scientific laboratory, the European Nuclear Research Centre (CERN) in Switzerland, to shade (follow) five RTU scientists.

February 24 
With the decision of Senate of RTU (Minutes No. 637): FCSIT Institute of Computer Control, Automation and Computer Engineering changed its name to Institute of Intelligent Computer Technology.

February 27
The Italian Ambassador to Latvia, Stefano Taliani de Marchio, has introductory visit in RTU.

February 29
At the 30th Latvian Universiade, RTU badmintonists win gold medals both in the men’s and women’s overall and individual performances.

February 29–March 1

• In the Latvian Table Tennis Championships FCE fourth-year student Viktorija Majorova wins 2nd place Diāna Afanasjeva, 3rd in mixed doubles with Andrejs Čemirtāns, 4th in singles. FCSIT second-year student Liāna Zeltiņa wins 3rd place in mixed doubles with FCSIT first-year student Eduards Spāģe.
• In Latvian Winter Championships in Athletics FET student Valērijs Valinščikovs holds the title of Vice-Champion in the distance of 60 m (6.98 s) and 200 m (22.04 s); FCSIT student Marks Aleksandrs Harčenko  wins the title of Vice-Champion in pole vaulting (4.40 m); FPEE student Kārlis Sondors wins the 3rd place 60 m hurdling (8.45 s); FMETA student Sandis Rošāns wins 3rd place in high jump (1,93 s).

In February

• «LIGHT Pedal», the newest product developed by the new Latvian gaming company «Gamechanger Audio», wins the prestigious «Music Radar» award at the «Winter NAMM» Music Industry Show in the US. The chief developer of «LIGHT Pedal» is the company’ youngest engineer, Teodors Kerimovs, the third-year student of FET.
• RTU is recognized as the 24th best university in the new «European Ranking of Engineering Programs 2019» – «EngiRank» which evaluates 100 university education institutions from the 13 countries that have joined the European Union since 2004. The most highly rated criterion at RTU is research effectiveness, where RTU is ranked 7th best.

March 2
At the 96th Latvian Open Swimming Championships, FMETA student Daniils Bobrovs wins medals in two swims: 200m silver and 100m bronze in breaststroke.

March 10

• RTU is visited by representatives of the Finnish textile, recycling and biotechnology companies and the VTT Technical Research Center of Finland.
• Research Assistant and Lecturer of the Department of Roads and Bridges of FCE Dr. sc. ing. Andris Freimanis is awarded the LAS Award named by Vitauts Tamužs.

March 13
In response to the state of emergency announced by the Latvian government to limit the spread of the «Covid-19» virus, all full-time student lectures, as well as all extra-curricular activities and preparatory courses have been cancelled from March 13 to April 14 by RTU Rector Academician Leonīds Ribickis. The Rector’s decree stipulates that employees shall, as far as possible, also ensure remote work, in writing confirming compliance with occupational safety and data protection measures.

March 16
By RTU Rector’s order No. 01000-1.2-e/29 «On amendments to Order No. 01000-1.2-e/29 of 18 February 2019 01000-1.2-e/14 «For 2019/2020 academic year study work schedule»» RTU has cancelled spring break, determining the spring semester from 27.01. until 21.06.2020. Such a decision was made in order to be able to continue the distance learning process and compensate for the time required to start and implement distance learning.

March 30

• Considering the announcement of the World Health Organization on 11 March 2020 that Covid-19 has reached pandemic proportions, and based on Article 4, first paragraph, point 1 (e) subparagraph of the Civil Protection and Disaster Management Law; Article 4, Article 5 Paragraph 1 and Article 6 Paragraph 1 and 2, Article 7 point 1 and Article 8 of Law «On Emergency and Exceptional Situations»; Article 3 Paragraph 2 of the Epidemiological Safety Law – RTU Senate decides (Minutes No. 638) from 30 March 2020 until the moment when the state of emergency declared in the country will be lifted, no later than 1 July 2020, to organize work remotely using MS Teams, in the presence of one senator and vice-rectors of each structural unit represented in the RTU Senate, who have issues included in the agenda of the Senate Minutes; remote voting takes place using MS Forms or MS Polly tools; in decision-making, on-site and off-site voting are summed.
• For the first time in the history of RTU, the sitting of the Senate takes place in remote mode.

In March
RTU is recognized as one of the top 500 universities in the world in engineering and technology by tehnoloģijās «QS World University Rankings by Subject 2020», becoming the only university in Latvia ranked among the top five industries.

September 1
Faculty of Power and Electrical Engineering (FPEE) celebrated its 60th anniversary. Excursions in the former building of the faculty at 1 Kronvalda bulvāris and at the present building at 12 k-1 Āzenes iela in Ķīpsala, as well as a social event at 1 Kaļķu iela took place.

September 12–14
The 4th year’s student team of the Bachelor’s Professional Study Program «Trantsportbūve» («Transport Building») of Faculty of Civil Engineering (FCE) – Romāns Kornišovs, Kristaps Maneks and Juris Latišs – got the second place in the 3rd International Transport Building Student Olympiad in Minsk, Belarus.

September 14–21
School year 2017/2018 graduate of RTU Engineering High School (EHS) Roberts Pavlovskis got the Gold Medal at the International Economics Olympiad in Moscow.

September 17–21
RTU was organizing the Most Powerful Conference on Power Electronics «EPE 2018» of European Power Electronics and Drives Association (EPE).

September 18
RTU joined the Magna Charta Observatory (Magna Charter Universitatum). At a solemn ceremony held in Spain, at the University of Salamanca, the accession document was signed by RTU Vice-Rector for Strategic Development Artūrs Zeps. The Spanish King and Queen, Rector of the University of Bologna, President of the Magna Charta Observatory and representatives of other universities took part at the ceremony.

September 27
The best-equipped and most modern metrology laboratory in the Baltics «Mitutoyo» was opened at RTU Laboratory Building at 1 Paula Valdena iela, Room 106 within the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Transport and Aeronautics (FMETA).

September 28
With the decision of the Senate of RTU (Minutes No. 622) the title of RTU Honorary Doctor was granted to Professor of Chair of Mechanics and Robotics of University of Duisburg-Essen Andrés George Kecskeméthy Darányi.

September 29
RTU students Daniils Bobrovs (FMETA), Gustavs Vīksne (Faculty of Computer Science and Information Technology; FCSIT) and Tomass Jegorovs (FCSIT) as well as graduate (2018) of the Faculty of Engineering Economics and Management (FEEM) Ģirts Feldbergs took part in a 100 x 100 meter freestyle relay swim dedicated to the centenary of Latvia. That was an attempt to beat the Guinness World Record. Latvian swimmers reached a world record in a swimming relay (1:30:28) in a 50-meter swimming pool, Guinness’s record (1:29:03) was reached in Britain in a 25-meter pool.

October 3
RTU signed cooperation agreement with Latvian Academy of Sport Education on cooperation in studies, science and innovation and student exchange.

October 5
RTU and five other Latvian universities signed the Memorandum of Cooperation on Efforts to strengthen sustainability in Latvia. The Memorandum was signed at the seminar «Augstskolu loma un atbildība Latvijas ilgtspējas veicināšanā» («Role and Responsibility of University Institutions in Promoting Sustainability in Latvia») of «GreenMetric» which was held at RTU.

October 5–7
Students of Bachelor’s Professional Study Program «Material Technology and Design» of Institute of Design Technologies (IDT) of The Faculty of Materials Science and Applied Chemistry (FMSAC) Ieva Kreile and Santa Pikuma acquired Annual Award 2018 from the Latvian Designers’ Society in the category of universities in sub-category «Product Design».

October 10
The second RTU History Day and the 59th International Scientific Conference in the Section of History of Engineering Sciences and Institutions of Higher Education were held. The second volume in Latvian and English of the scientific journal of RTU Research Centre for Engineering History (RCEH) and popular-scientific book «Riga Technical University. Half a Century on Ķīpsala» were opened.

October 12
At the 59th plenary session of the International Scientific Conference, the title «RTU Scientist of the Year 2018» was awarded to Senior Researcher of FMSAC Jānis Ločs; the title «RTU Young Female Scientist of the Year 2018» was awarded to Researcher of FMSAC Arita Dubņika; the title «RTU Young Scientist of the Year 2018» was awarded to Senior Researcher of Faculty of Electronics and Telecommunications (FET) Andis Supe; RTU Annual Award for Valorisation received Professor of FPEE Dagnija Blumberga; for the first time the prize in valorisation was presented to the student, it received Researcher of FMSAC Uldis Peipiņš; the title «RTU Honorary Alumnus 2017» was awarded to Chairman of the Board of «HansaMatrix» Ilmārs Osmanis; for the first time the lecturers were congratulated: the «RTU Annual Academic Excellence Award 2018» was awarded to Associate Professor of FCSIT Alla Anohina-Naumeca; Honorary title «RTU New Lecturer of the Year 2018» was awarded to lecturer of FEEM Leonards Budņiks; development grants were awarded to Dean of FEEM Professor Elīna Gaile-Sarkane; Professor of FMSAC Svetlana Čornaja and Professor of FCSIT Inta Volodko.

October 16–18
In Frankfurt, during the «InterGeo» Forum, work «The Use of Combined Methods for Precise Topographic Data Acquisition» of undergraduate of Professional Study Program «Geomatics» of FCE Rūdolfs Mellēns was acknowledged as the Winning paper of CLGE Student Contest in category Geodesy, Topography.

October 16–19
For the third year in a row, FEEM and the Riga Business School (RBS) of RTU saved the Four Leagues of Palms of Excellence at «Eduniversal» rating.

October 17
Pupils of the 10th grade of RTU EHS took part in the world’s largest lesson, which took place in Vecumnieki village and was being developed in cooperation with the company «Latvian State Forests».

October 18
President of Latvia Raimonds Vējonis, Minister of Education and Science Kārlis Šadurskis and Head of the National Centre for Education of the Republic of Latvia Guntars Catlaks at the solemn ceremony at Riga Castle welcomed secondary school pupils who had successfully participated in international training Olympiads. Among them were pupils of RTU EHS: graduates of EHS –Roberts Pavlovskis (Gold Medal in the 1st International Economic Olympiad); Tomass Ernests Auziņš (Bronze Award at the 29th International Biology Olympiad); pupil Artems Ubaidullaevs (recognition at the 59th International Mathematical Olympiad), pupil Jana Boļmante (participation in the International German Olympiad). Gratitude for contributing to the preparation of Latvian pupils for the International GENUS Olympiad was given to the Researcher of the Institute of Technology of Organic Chemistry (ITOC) of FMSAC Krista Suta.

October 29
With the decision of Senate of RTU (Minutes No. 623) Institute of Mechanics (IM) and Institute of Mechanical Engineering (IME) of FMETA was reorganized and their obligations and rights were taken over by the newly established structural unit – Institute of Mechanics and Mechanical Engineering.

October 31

• RTU, Riga Stradiņš University (RSU) and BA School of Business and Finance (BASBF) signed an agreement on cooperation in cyber security competences.
• RTU acquired the 57th place in rating «QS Emerging Europe and Central Asia (ECCA) 2019».

November 5–9
RTU delegation under the leadership of Rector Academician Leonīds Ribickis attended five institutions of university educations – Kyungpook National University (Daegu, Korea), Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology (Taipei, Taiwan), WuFeng University (Chiayi, Taiwan), Hang Seng University of Hong Kong (Hong Kong, China) to sign a cooperation agreements, discuss the success of the cooperation and mark new opportunities.

November 7
RTU ranked 801st+ place in the new rating «Times Higher Education», which evaluates university performance in natural science.

November 8
RTU Rector Academician Leonīds Ribickis at Hong Kong City University in China received the «World Cultural Council» award for contributing education.

November 12–15

• The Electronic Week organized by the Student Self-government of faculty took place at the FET. During event, guest lectures and workshops of well-known companies of electronics and telecommunications were held.
• The work «Balerīna» by the team of RTU EHS – Aleksejs Jekimovs, Alise Anna Stīpniece and Evelīna Valtere received the Innovation Award «Elektronikas dienas 2018» the exhibition of works of Electronics Hobby Club.

November 16
Senior Researcher of the Institute of Applied Chemistry of FMSAC Kristaps Māliņš received the highest award of the Jelgava Region – Honorary Diploma.

November 17
The Director of Institute of Transport Infrastructure Engineering of FCE, the Head of Department of Roads and Bridges Professor Dr. sc. ing. Ainārs Paeglītis received the Cross of Recognition, III Class. Head of RTU Defence and Military Technology Research Centre, Chief of Intelligence Division of the National Guard Student Battalion of the Latvian National Guard, Head of the National Guard Science, Research and Innovation Implementation Center Captain Juris Ķiploks received the Order of Viesturs, V Class.

November 21
The Cabinet of Ministers (CM) of the Republic of Latvia decided to reorganized Mechanics and Technology College of Olaine by joining to RTU from 1 July 2019.

November 29
Latvian Academy of Sciences (LAS) at Autumn General Meeting elected FMSAC Professor Valdis Kokars as Academician and choose Senior Researcher of FMSAC Jānis Ločs and Dean of FET Professor Jurģis Poriņš as LAS Corresponding Members.

In November

• With the successful co-operation and support in contributing to the defence and security of Latvia, Minister of Defence Raimonds Bergmanis presented the Honorary Certificate of Ministry of Defence of Republic of Latvia to RTU Rector Academician Leonīds Ribickis.
• Andris Šutka, a new scientist of FMSAC, received the prestigious TOYP (Ten Outstanding Young Persons) award for outstanding achievements in science.
• RTU was included among the top universities in engineering and technology, ranked 501–600 place at «Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2019 by subject: Engineering and Technology».
• RTU was also included in the ranking of IT science industry organized by THE.
• RTU received an outstanding rating of five stars in the international ranking of universities «QS Stars». The five-star system assessed the university’s performance in eight categories; RTU acquired evaluation of top five stars in six categories.

December 6
RTU EHS received the LAS Award in Education and Science – Honorary title of Cicerone.

December 10
Professor Aivars Vilnis Krastiņš, Director of the Institute of International Business and Customs (IIBC) of FEEM was awarded with the State Revenue Service (SRS) Badge of the Honour, Badge of Honour of the First Class for personal contribution to the development of the SRS by establishing and strengthening the customs and tax education system in Latvia.
IIBC of FEEM received Certificate of Recognition for the acknowledgment of long-term cooperation, promoting the achievement of the SRS goals.
SRS also expressed gratitude to Associate Professor of Chair of Customs and Taxes of IIBC Maris Jurušs for participation in elaboration of excise duty gap methodology and conducting research on illegal movement of excise goods, involving students who promote SRS goals.

December 12

• RTU EHS received the Friendly Calling Fund Award. It has been recognized as the best secondary school of the city in Latvia in the group of big cities in the ranking of the Friendly Calling Fund for 2017/2018 school year; and receives prizes for best results in mathematics, Latvian and literature, natural sciences. RTU EHS also receives an award in the nomination «Izaugsme» («Growth»). In English nomination, the school has won a high second place in the group of city secondary schools.
• At the general meeting of the RTU Student Parliament (RTU SP) the student of FCSIT Katrīna Rudoviča was elected as a new president of RTU SP.

December 13
Annual Awards of «Latvenergo» and LAS were awarded to three scientists: Associate Professor of the Institute of Industrial Electronics and Electrical Engineering (IIEE) Pēteris Apse-Apsītis received the LAS Award named by Alfrēds Vītols for outstanding contribution to energetic; Senior Researcher of IIEE of FEEM Jānis Zaķis and Senior Researcher of Scientific Laboratory of Functional Materials Technologies (SLFMT) of FMSAC Andris Šutka acquired the award of «Latvenergo» and LAS for significant contribution to energetics; the young scientists Līga Grase and Poļina Ivanova, who had developed and defended doctoral theses at RTU (2017, 2018) received the 2018 Award for Success in the Energetics; 11 students of RTU (10 from FPEE; one from FMETA) received awards from LAS for successful defending of diplomas.

December 17
By decision of the Senate of RTU (Minutes No. 625), the Centre of Industrial Design and Ergonomics of the Institute of Mechanics of FMETA was liquidated by establishing the Chair of Industrial Design.

December 20
Award of Civil Engineer Guntis Bole was handed to graduate of Faculty of Architecture (FA) Agnija Pastare and to 4th year student of study programme «Heat, Gas and Water Technology» of FCE Raimonds Bogdanovčs at the FA. At the same event the Latvian Regional Architecture Premium of Professor Ivars Strautmanis was awarded to graduate of FA (2018) Luīze Marta Aizpurva.

In December

• LAS announces 12 major achievements in Latvian science in 2018, including research conducted by RTU scientists:
  • researches on the development of triboelectric (nano)generators carried out by scientists of the SLFMT of FMSAC and the Institute of Technical Physics (Andris Šutka, Kaspars Mālnieks, Artis Linarts, Linards Lapčinskis, Juris Blūms, Ilgvars Gorņevs, Vilnis Jurķāns, Astrīda Bērziņa, Māris Knite);
  • Book by Professor of FA Jānis Krastinš «Jūgendstila arhitektūra Latvijā» («Art Nouveau Architecture in Latvia») (2018);
  • uncovering of unusual DNA forms with unusual packing and genome service functions in human cells; Hermanis Sorokins and Jēkabs Krīgerts, scientists of the Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Nanotechnologies (IBEN) of the FMETA had also participated in the research;
  • portable device for early contactless diagnostics for skin cancer; the research has been carried out by the scientists Dmitrijs Bļizņuks, Katrina Boločko, Pāvels Osipovs, Mihails Kovaļovs, Jurijs Jonass, Gundars Miezītis and Andrejs Kalniņš of FCSIT in cooperation with the researchers of the University of Latvia (UL);
  • the book «Nonregular nanosystems: theory and applications» (2018); one of the authors of the book is researcher of the Institute of Aeronautics of FMETA Tamāra Lobanova-Šuņina.
• RTU was ranked in 128th place in Green Policy and Sustainability Rating «GreenMetric» and is the greenest university in Latvia.

January 4
The Exhibition #ZinātneLatvijai created by the Ministry of Education and Science (MES) was opened at the fashion and entertainment center «Riga Plaza» at 71 Mūkusalas iela. The exhibition was also attended by Senior Researcher of Institute of Telecommunications (IT) of FET Sandis Spolītis, Associate Professor and the Head of the Chair of Environmental Protection and Heat Systems of FPEE Jūlija Gušča, graduate of FMSAC Kristaps Jaudzems and graduate of FMETA Dainis Jakovels.

January 16
Robotics Hobby Group of RTU EHS participated in the largest Festival of Robotics in the world «Robotex» in Tallinn in 2018 gaining the 3rd place in girls competition and outstanding success in other categories of competitions, reaching the top of world ratings.

January 17
The opened competition organized by the RTU Procurement Unit for the construction of the FCSIT building and Public Auditorium Centre at RTU Campus in Ķīpsala was recognized as «Annual Procurement» in 2018.

January 22
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Chile Hernan Bascuñán-Jiménez, third Secretary of the Embassy of the Republic of Chile Michel Lavin and the Honorary consul of the Republic of Chile to Latvia Marc Fedder attended the RTU.

January 23
The FEEM opened the «Bloomberg» laboratory, giving access to a wide range real-time databases, researches and analysis tools for students and researchers.

January 28
Graduates and teachers of RTU EHS were awarded with the Honorary Diplomas and Medals of the Friendly Call Foundation. In the nomination «Absolvents» for outstanding achievements, Bronze Medal at the International Biology Olympiad in 2018 was awarded to the graduate Ernests Tomass Auziņš; Roberts Pavlovskis was awarded for the gained Gold Medal at the 2018 Economic Olympiad; graduate Vladislavs Aščeulovs was awarded for the gained Bronze Medal at the 2017 International Chemistry Olympiad. Three teachers were awarded in the nomination «Skolotājs»: Biology teacher Dace Bērtule, Economic teacher Uldis Kamols, Chemistry teacher Laura Fjodorova.

January 29
The symbol of FMETA – the gear – was moved from 36 Viskaļu iela to Ķīpsala and placed in front of the building at 6B Āzenes iela.

January 31

• RTU celebrated the Chinese New Year. The event was attended by Rector Academician Leonīds Ribickis, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to China Huang Yong and RTU Students from China.
• Assistant Professor of Chair of Telecommunications Networks of FET Viktors Zagorskis received the Annual Award of Latvian Open Technology Association for active position, confidence and participation in acquiring open technologies and open source code solutions, in preparing educational materials and educating the public, including doctoral students and professors.

In January

• RTU was ranked 196th among the world’s most prestigious rating agencies «Times Higher Education» (THE), in the rating of the new economy states’ universities «THE Emerging Economies University Rankigs 2019», earning the highest rating among Latvian universities.
• RTU Rector Academician Leonīds Ribickis visited the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria in Spain and meet with its Rector Rafael Robaina Romero and Vice-Rector for Internationalization and Cooperation Richard Clouet, as well as Carlos M. Travieso-González a representative of the Faculty of Telecommunications and Electronics.

February 3
RTU florbolists became champions of the XXIX Universiade of Latvia.

February 4
RTU signed a new contract with the MES on the training of specialists and ensuring the development of scientific activity on the resources of the state budget.

February 8
Deputy Chairman of the Council of Ogre Municipality Egils Helmanis and RTU Rector Academician Leonīds Ribickis signed a cooperation agreement, continuing the previously successful cooperation.

February 13
In the Shadow Day, RTU scientists and employees were followed by 180 «shadows». Five «shadows» of RTU scientists also followed by the largest particle physics laboratory – the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) in Switzerland. US Ambassador to Latvia Nancy Bikoff Pettit visited the RTU Design Factory on the Shadow Day.

February 15
The first RTU and RSU joint graduation of bachelor’s professional study program «Medical Engineering and Physics» happened. 12 graduates received a joint diploma of both universities.

February 16
2nd year student sprinter of FMETA Kristaps Sietiņš became a Latvian champion in 60 m sprint hurdle race indoors (7.94) at Kuldīga Latvian Championship in Indoor Athletics and qualified for European Championship.

February 28
The open-type prototyping workshop «theLAB Cēsis» of the regional affiliate of the RTU Design Factory «theLAB» network was officially opened at RTU Cēsis Affiliate.

In February
The 3rd year students of the study program «Material Technology and Design» of the IDT of the FMSAC were evaluated in a competition organized by «Modernists» dedicated to the centenary of «Bauhaus». Paula Kristiāna Kalniņa was recognized as the winner of the competition, the second best was Alise Sietniece and the third – Jānis Martuļevs.

March 1
RTU Rector Academician Leonīds Ribickis and 38 scientists from 13 European Union (EU) Member States signed a joint communiqué expressing commitment to make the EU as the world’s strongest community and leader in education, research, innovation, quality and ethical standards by 2050.

March 5
Embassy of India in Sweden and Latvia organized Student Day at RTU.

March 18
RTU Rector Academician Leonīds Ribickis during his visit to Italy signed an agreement with Rector University of Trieste Professor Maurizio Fermeglia on co-operation in bioengineering, biomedical engineering, biochemistry, medical physics and biotechnology.

March 21
The exhibition «Ķīmisko elementu periodiskā tabula – no Mendeļejeva līdz šodienai (1869–2019)» («The Periodic Table of Chemical Elements – from Mendeleev to Present (1869–2019)») of Mendeleev Tables was opened at FMSAC. The exhibition was a donation to the faculty by the long-standing chemistry teacher of Iecava Secondary School Mihails Gorskis.

March 23
2nd year student Reinis Krauklis of FCE won the final stage of the Badminton Tournament «Victor Latvia GP 2019», which took place at the Salaspils Sports Complex.

March 25
By decision of the Senate of RTU (Minutes No. 628), by reorganising the Department of Maintenance such structures were established: Infrastructure Department and Student Hostel Department; by reorganizing the Administrative Department, Administrative Service Office of the Director of administration was established.

March 26
The conference «Pārmaiņas ilgtspējīgai augstākajai izglītībai» («Changes to Sustainable University Education») dedicated to the future of university education took place at the Scientific Library of RTU, with the participation of the Minister of Education and Science of the Republic of Latvia Ilga Šuplinska and members of the Education, Culture and Science and Sustainable Development Committee of the Saeima.

March 27

• The Prime Minister of the Republic of Latvia Krišjānis Kariņš presented awards to the Director of the IDT of FMSAC Dana Beļakova and the oldest computer systems and computer network Administrator at the Computing Center of FCSIT Dagnis Zemturis for preparing young people for a successful competition «Euroskills 2018».
• Pupil of RTU EHS Artems Ubaidullaevs and graduate Ernests Tomass Auziņš as well as their teachers Inguna Granta and Dace Bērtule were awarded with the Diplomas of Cabinet of Ministers on outstanding achievements in international training Olympiads.

March 28
RTU opened a scientific photo exhibition of the CERN at the Liepāja Affiliate, giving an opportunity to learn how the Large Hadron Collider works.

March 31
RTU dance group «Vektors» with concerts at VEF Culture Palace celebrated its 60th anniversary.

In March

• Researcher of IT of FET Jānis Braunfelds received the Annual Award in Science and Research of Defence Industry on research «Bregg Grating Optical Sensors».
• Director of Scientific Research Laboratory of Biotextile Materials of FMETA Inga Ļašenko won the second place and gained the money award at the competition «Latvijas-Amerikas Inovāciju balva 2019» («Latvian-American Innovation Award 2019»), PhD student of Institute of Applied Computer Systems of FCSIT Ēvalds Urtāns received the Honorary certificate.

April 3

• The third edition of the book «Biznesa ekonomika» («Business Economy») by RTU Honorary Doctor Kjell Gunnar Hoff with the participation of Norway Ambassador to the Republic of Latvia Kristian Ødegaard was launched at RTU RCEH.
• RTU ranked the 201st–300th place in the rating «The Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2019».

April 4
At the LAS 2019 Spring General Meeting, the new scientist of the ITOC of FMSAC Armands Sebris on the master’s thesis « Synthesis and Photophysical Properties of Amorphous Purine-Azole Conjugates» received LAS Emīlija Gudriniece Prize in chemistry and technology of chemistry.

April 8
On 8 April 2019, President of the Republic of Latvia Raimonds Vējonis and the Chapter of Orders decided to award the Cross of Recognition for special merits in favour of the State of Latvia: Dean of the FMETA Professor Ēriks Geriņš and Professor of Chair of Theoretical Mechanics and Strength of Materials, Correspondent Member of LAS Jānis Vība; Director of Institute of Inorganic Chemistry of FMSAC, Senior Researcher, Academician of LAS Jānis Grabis. The solemn award ceremony took place on 3 May in Riga Castle.

April 10
Traditional fashion show of ITD of FMSAC «Ķīpsalas pavasaris 2019» («Spring of Ķīpsala 2019») celebrated its 15th anniversary.

April 16
JSC «Augstsprieguma tīkls» concluded a cooperation agreement with RTU and in the lobby of FPEE revealed the exhibition «Moving Energy». On 10 May, the exhibition travelled to Liepāja Affiliate of RTU, where it was opened until 25 May.

April 18
FEEM opened the Customs Control Laboratory.

April 24
RTU, UL, MES, New York State University of Buffalo established a new study program «Computer Science and Organizational Technologies». For the first time, the program is financially supported by the MES, the Ministry of Economics, banks and the IT industry.

April 26
The Senior Researcher of the Institute of Construction Technology of FCE Videvuds Ārijs Lapsa, had been awarded the «Medal for Inventors» of the World Intellectual Property.

April 29

• The head of RTU dance group «Vektors» Uldis Šteins received the first Latvian highest award in professional dance art. Dagmāra Bārbale, the current leader of the dance group, was awarded the «Choreographer of Stage Folk Dance».
• By decision of RTU Senate (Minutes No. 629), by the reorganization of the Administrative Department (Minutes No. 628), Administrative Service Office of the Director of administration (ASOD) was established and its regulations approved. Subordinate to ASOD: Personnel and Working Environment Department; Information Technology Department; Maintenance Department; Student Hostel Department; Property and Investment Department; Scientific library; Culture Centre; Sports Centre.
• By decision of RTU Senate (Minutes No. 629) RTU Department of Business Development and Investment was liquidated, its structures were transferred: Alumni Unit to Department of Public Affairs; Business Development Unit to Project Management and Development Department; Investment Attraction and Property Lease Unit, changing its name to «Property and Investment Department», to the ASOD.

In April
The World Customs Organization (WCO) endorsed the renewed international standards for the profession of customs officers developed at the FEEM IIBC. The WCO expressed its gratitude to RTU for the renewal of the standards.

April 27–May 1
At the Baltic Olympiad in Informatics in Tartu, Estonia, the 11th grade pupil Kārlis Šusters of RTU EHS won the Bronze Medal.

May 9–11

• At the «XII International Aventics Pneumobile Competition», FMETA teams won several award-winning places: RTU team «Riga Fresh» (captain Artūrs Rugājs, participants Kristians Radiņš, Ojārs Seglērs, Elza Sokolovska, technician – FMETA lecturer Māris Gailis, trainer – Head of laboratory of Chair of Automotive Engineering (CAE) of Institute of Transport (IT) Jānis Rudzītis) with the four wheel pneumobile won the 1st place in distance competition with more than 30 teams, setting a new Latvian record – 10.6 km. The team also won the 2nd place in the acceleration discipline (dragreiss) in a distance of 220 km in 56 seconds achieving speed – 50.3 km/h and received the main prize of «National Instruments» company for the best command and control system.
• RTU team «Riga Airmobile» (captain Dāvis Serds, participants Renārs Rutulis and Feride Ločmele, trainer – IT CAE Assistant Valdis Priede) with the three wheel pneumobile won the 2nd place in agility driving discipline and 3rd place in acceleration discipline.

May 16–17
For the first time in the Baltics RTU was hosting an international annual conference «ICAReAlumni 2019» organized by RTU Alumni Association in cooperation with Porto Business School and Centre for Social Studies from Portugal.

May 18
For the first time in the History Museum of Customs and Taxes, FEEM was hosting a Museum Night event, providing a glimpse into the everyday life of custom officers. The event was created in cooperation with the Customs Board of the State Revenue Service and the Bauska Museum.

May 22

• RTU and LMT launched a new business and science cooperation initiative – «Industrial Doctor» to promote creation of innovations for the Latvian economy.
• The Jury of the association «Building Design and Construction Council» in cooperation with the Riga City Council Department of Property in the contest «Woman in Architecture, Construction, Design 2018» awarded Docent of Chair of History and Theory of Architecture of FA Agrita Tipāne, for her contribution to the field of architecture; administrator of Study Office of Chair of Architectural Design Inguna Dumbere for achievements in architecture promotion.

May 25
RTU women’s choir «Delta» celebrated its 60th Anniversary with a concert in RTU Great Hall, at 1 Kaļķu iela.

May 27–31
For the first time the 8th International Staff Training week of RTU took place at the RTU RCEH Exhibition Hall at 1 Kronvalda bulvāris.

May 29
FPEE the Institute of Energy Systems and Environment (IESE) received the 1st prize in the category «Urban development. Developing cities resilient to climate change» in the competition of the Ministry of Finance «RegioStars Latvija 2019».

May 31
In anticipation of 60th anniversary, the RTU Men’s Choir «Gaudeamus» was performing in the former Riga Steam Water Pumping Station at 196 Maskavas iela, where no concert has been performed so far.

In May

• RTU scientist – Inga Ļašenko, Head of the Biotextilematerials Research Laboratory and her team of researchers (RTU FMETA Professor Olga Kononova, UL Scientist Dace Grauda, RSU Scientist Jūlija Rombovska) – won the International Women’s Design Innovation Award for Nano-thread invention.
• RTU is highly ranked in the international ranking of universities «U-Multirank», being the only one in Latvia to receive the highest number of higher or A-level ratings in 11 evaluation criteria.

June 8
RTU vocal group « Jauna nianse » celebrated its 20th anniversary with a concert in the RTU Small Hall, at 1 Kaļķu iela.

June 17–22
Kārlis Rimaševskis, a pupil of RTU EHS, received a Bronze Medal and Uģis Vevers received a recognition at the International Young Scientists’ Competition «Genius Olympiad» in Oswego, New York.

June 17
By decision of the RTU Senate (Minutes No. 631), the title of RT Honorary Doctor was granted to Professor Hidenori Mimura, Director of the Research Institute of Electronics of Shizuoka University (Japan); RTU BALTECH Study Centre was included in the FEEM.

June 20
The third RTU Grand Graduation took place in «Arena Riga».

June 21
FMSAC opened a new laboratory where faculty researchers will work with «Microactivity effi» reactor for the production of liquid fuel components from carbon dioxide (CO2) and carbon monoxide (CO).

In June

• RTU scientists Jana Vecstaudža (FMSAC) and Laura Dembovska (FCE) received a scholarship for «Women in Science» from «L’Oréal Baltic».
• RTU Student brass band «SPO» at the International Brass Band Festival – with 13 bands competition in Italy in the nomination of «Brass Bands and Dance Groups» together with the dance group under the guidance of Gita Ūdre won the 1st place and the Gold Cup.
• RTU was ranked in 701–750 place in the international rankings «QS World University Rankings 2020».
• RTU was highly ranked in the international ranking of universities «U-Multirank», being the only one in Latvia received the supreme number of highest or A-level ratings in 11 evaluation criteria.

July 2
RTU Rector Academician Leonīds Ribickis received a Certificate of Commendation from the President of Latvia Raimonds Vējonis. It was awarded for personal contribution to the formation of knowledge society and the development of exact sciences in Latvia.

July 5
RTU was included in the «200+» category in the International European Training Ranking THE (Times Higher Education), which includes all universities ranked in 200–258th place. RTU is included in this rating for the first time.

July 23
RTU Rector Academician Leonīds Ribickis meet members of the summer camp – school for talented Latvian students «Alfa» and, inspiring for future challenges in engineering, presented a book about RTU Honorary Member Mikhail Dolivo-Dobrovolsky.

In July
For the eighth year in a row from the employers RTU has been admitted as the most highly recommended university in Latvia.

August 3–11
The International Exhibition Centre BT1, in Ķīpsala, hosted the largest international chess festival in Northern Europe, «RTU Open 2019», the winner of whom was Latvian chess player Igors Kovaļenko.

August 4–11
Kārlis Šusters, a pupilof RTU EHS, won a bronze medal at the 31st International Olympiad in Informatics in Baku (Azerbaijan) along the 325 participants.

August 9

• Regina Ines Aujesky (b. Nauck) the great-great-granddaughter of Professor Ernst Nauck, the first director of Riga Polytechnicum, visited RTU with her husband Norbert.
• RTU signs purchase agreement with Merks Ltd. for reconstruction of FCE building (at 6A Ķīpsalas iela). Construction is scheduled to begin this fall and be completed by February 2021.

August 24
Celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Baltic Way, RTU men’s choir «Gaudeamus» under the direction of Ivars Cinkuss participated in a largescale concert «Saule. Pērkons. Daugava» («Sun. Thunder. Daugava») in the Likteņdārzā (the Garden of Destinies). One of the creators of the concert program was I. Cinkuss. The President of Latvia Egils Levits also attend the event.

August 29
Solemnly the new building of FMETA at 6B Ķīpsalas iela was officially opened (the FCE was located at previously renovated building). Minister of Education and Science of the Republic of Latvia Ilga Šuplinska participatd in the opening ceremony. The Minister of Economics of the Republic of Latvia Ralfs Nemiro visited the RTU Campus.

August 30

• The traditional meeting of RTU Rector with teaching staff and employees of RTU at the beginning of new study year.
• President of Latvia Egils Levits congratulated RTU EHS on achievements at the Riga Castle, presenting Atis Kronvalds Foundation Award «Lielā Pūce» («Big Owl») for the first place in the category of Small School Rating and the second place in the Star Rating created by the Foundation.

September 1

• Prime Minister of Latvia Māris Kučinskis attended the traditional meeting of RTU Rector with teaching staff and employees of RTU and presented to the Rector a Letter of Appreciation «For lifelong contribution to the development of Latvian science and persistent efforts to develop studies of exact sciences, innovation and technology transfer, thus enhancing the quality of education development of the national economy».
• Students of the Engineering High School (EHS) of Riga Technical University welcomed Prime Minister of Latvia Māris Kučinskis in the School.
• The first 20 students from the People’s Republic of China (PRC) started to study the Latvian language within the framework of a project funded by the PRC government in RTU.
• RTU Rector, Academician Leonīds Ribickis began a new year of studies, presenting his new book «50 gadi zinātnes attīstībā» («50 Years in the Development of Science»).
• Professor Elīna Gaile-Sarkane, the third Dean in the history of RTU, and the second elected female to this position in RTU, started working as a Dean of the Faculty of Engineering Economics and Management (FEEM).

October 6

• The Diploma of RTU Honorary Member was awarded to Valdis Dombrovskis, the Vice-President for Euro and Social Dialogue of the European Commission, graduate of the Faculty of Engineering Economics (1995) of RTU (since 2008 – FEEM).
• Deputy of Foreign Minister of the Republic of Colombia Patti Londoño-Jaramillo visited RTU.

October 10
The first RTU History Day and the 58th International Scientific Conference of the Section of History of Engineering Sciences and Institutions of Higher Educations was held. A new Exposition Hall of RTU RCEH was opened at 1 Kronvalda Boulevard, as well as the 5th book of the historystudy «Augstākās tehniskās izglītības vēsture» («History of Higher Technical
Education») and the first volume of scientific articles of RTU RCEH were presented.

October 11
RTU Administration, staff and students put flowers in the final resting places of the deceased rectors of university in Rīga Great Cemetery, Meža Cemetery and Matīsa Cemetery.

October 14

• At the Plenary session of the 58th International Scientific Conference the following titles were awarded: «RTU Scientist of the Year 2017» was awarded to the Associate Professor of Faculty of Power and Electrical Engineering (FPEE) Dagnija Blumberga; «RTU Young Female Scientist of the Year 2017» – to the Associate Professor of Faculty of Civil Engineering (FCE) Linda Mežule; «RTU Young Scientist (Man) of the Year 2017» – to the Associate Professor of FCE Jānis Šliseris; for the first time the Annual Prize for valorisation and commercialization of technologies and products created by RTU was presented – it went to Professor of Faculty of Materials Science and Applied Chemistry (FMSAC) Māris Turks; the title of «RTU Honourable Graduate 2016» went to Chairman of the Board of «Naglis & ERR» Ltd. and to Head of Mechanical Engineering Competence Centre Dzintars Naglis.
• The Ball of RTU 155th Anniversary was held at the Riga Latvian Society House.

October 19
Vice-President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam Dang Thi Ngoc Thinh visited RTU.

November 2
British Embassy’s Defence Attache to Republic of Latvia Mark Sapsford visited RTU.

November 14
Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to Latvia Hanan Khalfan Al Aleeli visited RTU.

November 15
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Chile to Republic of Latvia Jose Goni visited RTU.

November 17
Professor of FMSAC of RTU Andris Ozols received the The Certificate of Recognition of the Cabinet of Ministers.

November 18
Head of the RTU Culture Centre Asja Visocka received the Cross of Recognition, IV Class.

November 23

• Ambassador of the Brazilian Federal Republic to Latvia Marcus Pinta Gama visited RTU.
• RTU Professor of FCE, Vice-Rector for Research Tālis Juhna and Professor of FMSAC Aigars Jirgensons were elected as Academicians of the Latvian Academy of Sciences (LAS). Professor of Institute of Aeronautics of Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Transport and Aeronautics (FMETA) Aleksandrs Urbahs, Associate Professor of FMSAC Kristaps Jaudzems and Professor of Faculty of Computer Science and Information Technology (FCSIT) Egils Ginters were elected as Corresponding Members of LAS.

November 28
New RTU magazine «Innovation» was founded.

In November
RTU became a full Member of the Association of European Network for Academic Integrity.

December 1
Practical Associate Professor of the Institute of Design Technologies of FMSAC Juris Emsiņš received the highest award of the forest and timber industry «Zelta čiekurs» («Golden Pine Cone»), the Certificate of Recognition of the Cabinet of Ministers, the Honorary diploma and the chest badge «Zelta sēkliņa» («Golden Seed»).

December 14

• Minister of Education and Science of Ukraine Liliia Hrynevych and Deputy Minister Pavlo Khobzey visited RTU.
• Dean of the FPEE Professor Oskars Krievs and Associate Professor of the Department of Power Systems Management and Automation Aleksandrs Dolgicers, received the Annual Prize of «Latvenergo» and LAS for their significant contribution in energetics.
• Awards of «Latvenergo» and LAS for achievements in energetics were awarded to young scientists who had recently obtained a Doctor degree in engineering sciences from RTU: Edīte Bieļa-Dailidoviča, Inga Iļjina, Oļegs Sļiskis, as wel as Doctor of Engineering Sciences Toms Komass, who had obtained a Master’s Degree from RTU.

December 18
Professor Elīna Gaile-Sarkane was elected as Chair of the Senate of RTU for the second term, Associate Professor Jānis Kaminskis was elected as Deputy Chair.

In December

• Vladislavs Aščeulovs, the 12th grade pupil of EHS of RTU and his teacher Laura Fjodorova received the awards of the Cabinet of Ministers for achievements in International School Olympiads.
• Assistant Professor of the Department of Chemical Technology of Biologically Active Compounds of FMSAC Vitālijs Rjabovs received the Award of the Cabinet of Ministers for preparing of the 1st year student of the University of Cambridge Margarita Fomenko for International Chemistry Olympiad.
• In the GreenMetric World University Ranking, RTU was ranked among 150 higher education institutions as the greenest university in the Baltic States.

January 11
For the first time New Employees’ Day took place.

January 13
First Lady of Japanese Prime Minister Akie Abe visitied the RTU and EHS of RTU.

In January
RTU students who graduated from the University in winter 2017/2018, for the first time in the history of Latvia received diploma annexes in electronic form.

February 7
The student of the FPEE Patriks Gailums was recognized as the best young athlete of the year (U-20) in Latvia.

February 11
The 2nd year student of the FMETA Artūrs Dārzieks, took the 24th place in luge racing at the XXIII Olympic Winter Games in PyeongChang, South Korea (KOR).

February 16

• LAS named the most significant achievements of Latvian science in 2017. LAS expressed the acknowledgements to the following scientific studies of RTU researchers: in Theoretical Sciences – the research of the FCSIT carried out by Professor Jānis Ošs and leading researcher Uldis Doniņš; in Applied Science – the research of FPEE carried out by Professor Antans Sauļus Sauhats, Researchers Zane Broka and Kārlis Baltputņš, Lead Researcher Romāns Petričenko, Associate Professors Gatis Junghāns and Oļegs Linkevičs, Assistant Professor Laila Zemīte, Professor Namejs Zeltiņš, Lead Researcher Renāta Varfolomejeva, Assistant Professor Ļubova Petričenko and Lead Researcher Jevgeņijs Kozadajevs.
• Lead Researchers Jānis Zicāns, Nikolajs Kurma, Uldis Rekners, Professors Remo Merijs-Meri, Juris Umbraško, Ritvars Bērziņš and Researcher Juris Bitenieks of the Institute of Polymer Materials of FMSAC received the Certificate of Recognition from the President of LAS.

February 20
The Exposition Hall of the RTU RCEH held an exhibition «Three countries. Three centenaries. Three architects», dedicated to the centenary of the Baltic States – Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.

March 9
The first festive event of presenting students of the 12th grade of EHS of RTU with the school badges took place.

March 13
RTU RCEH launced perennial Professor of FPEE Jēkabs Barkāns’ book «Noklusētās sāpes» («Hidden Pain»).

March 27
Vice Mayor Zhang Gong of Beijing (PRC) and President of the Beijing International Studies University (BISU) Ji Jinbiao visited RTU.

April 11
The artistic director of the RTU mixed choir «Vivere» Gints Ceplenieks was awarded the Annual Award «Baltais zvirbulis» («The White Sparrow ») of the Education, Culture and Sports Department of Riga City Council.

April 12

• President of Latvia Raimonds Vējonis visited RTU Campus on Ķīpsala Island.
• The scientific monograph «From Airplanes to Rockets – Friedrich Zander and Early Aviation in Riga» by Guenter Sollinger and Alīda Zigmunde was launched at RTU RCEH.

April 19

• Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Latvia Judīte Dobele visited RTU.
• A historic exposition featuring telecommunication equipment and radioreceivers manufactured between 1925 and 1990 was opened in the Faculty of Electronics and Telecommunications (FET).

April 23
With the decision of the Senate of RTU (Minutes No. 619), the Student Services Department, which includes the Admission Commission and the Division of Career Development and Services, was established.

April 27
RTU Alumni Association presented a new digital platform «RTUconnect» at the Alumni Party.

May14
«The CERN – Science Accelerator» exhibition organized by RTU was opened at the Latvian National Library, with the aim of raising the awareness of the Latvian public about the importance of Latvia’s accession to the European Centre for Nuclear Research (CERN), as well as educating the public about innovative technologies and promoting interest in the
field of exact sciences.

May 21
The Senate of RTU (Minutes No. 620), on the bases of the decisions of the Faculty Council, confirmed the following positions: Dean of the FCSIT – Professor Agris Ņikitenko (from 02.07.2018); Dean of the FMSAC – Professor Māris Turks (from 02.07.2018).

May 22
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Korea to the Republic of Latvia Jeong-Kyu Lee visited RTU.

May 29
Universities of the Baltic States signed a Memorandum of Understanding in the European CERN in Geneva. The CERN Baltic Group was officially established, which included all the major regional universities – Riga Technical University, University of Latvia, Riga Stradiņš University, Kaunas University of Technology, Vilnius University, Estonian National Institute of Biochemistry, Tallinn University of Technology and Tartu University. RTU Professor and Research Assistant of CERN Toms Torims was elected Head of the CERN Baltic Group.

In May
RTU student teams «Riga Airmobile» and «Riga Fresh» won two silver and one bronze medal at the International Pneumobil Races in the Egra city in Hungary.

June 2
The Vidzeme Invention and Innovation Festival «Minox» took place in Cēsis Affiliate of RTU.

June 8
Delegation of the Saxony-Anhalt (Federal Republic of Germany) Landtag Committee on Science, Economics and Digitization visited RTU.

June 15
Researcher of FCE Aleksandrs Zajacs receives prize of LAS and «Latvijas Gāze» for research on heat supply systems.

June 18–20
The 4th World Congress of Latvian Scientists took place in Latvia, with the participation of RTU scientists.

June 20
The «Siemens» Laboratory of Controllers was opened in the FET.

June 21
In «Arēna Rīga» («Arena Riga»), the second RTU Grand Graduation Party takes place, where for the first time, together with bachelors and masters, the young doctoral students who had defended their doctoral theses in 2017 were also welcomed. RTU diplomas were received by 1392 bachelors and masters, as well as 35 young doctors.

June 22–24
The 18th Baltic Student Song and Dance Festival «Gaudeamus» takes place Tartu, Estonia. The following are represented from the RTU: the choirs «Delta», «Gaudeamus» and «Vivere», the groups of young and middle-aged people in Folk Dance Ensemble «Vektors».

June 30
The first Graduation Party of EHS of RTU was held in RTU Great Hall, at 1 Kaļķu Street. President of Latvia Raimonds Vējonis, the Minister of Education and Science Kārlis Šadurskis, as well as the supporters of the secondary school, participated in it.

June 30–July 8
XXVI Nationwide Latvian Song Festival and XVI Dance Festival took place. The following RTU collectives participated: female choir «Delta», mixed choir «Vivere», male choir «Gaudeamus», vocal ensemble «Jauna nianse», Folk Dance Ensemble «Vektors», brass band «SPO», student theatre «Kamertonis», post-folk music group «Daba san». RTU Rector Academician Leonīds Ribickis participated in the festive opening procession.

In June
RTU for the first time was included in platinum category of «Ilgtspējas indekss» («Sustainability Index») of Latvian enterprises.

July 1
The Dean’s Office of the FMETA started operating in the Laboratory Building, Room 303, at 1 Paula Valdena Street 1, Ķīpsala.

July 3
Latvian Honorary Consuls from 55 countries visited RTU.

In July
For the seventh year in a row, RTU was named the most recommended higher education institution in the survey of employers, which had been compiled by the Employers’ Confederation of Latvia in cooperation with the career and education portal prakse.lv.

August 29
The President of Latvia Raimonds Vējonis to the representatives of the EHS of RTU presented Atis Kronvalds Foundation Award «Lielā Pūce» («Great Owl») in the Best Small School Rating. The president also presents acknowledgement to the representatives of the High School for the third place in the Foundation’s created Star Rating, which includes schools whose students have had the best performances at international educational Olympiads.

August 31
The traditional meeting of RTU Rector with teaching staff and employees of RTU at the beginning of new study year.

September 1
In accordance with the decision of the Senate of RTU on 21 March, the new graphic identity of RTU came into force.

September 2
The Faculty of Engineering Economics and Management (FEEM) celebrates its 50th Anniversary with an event honouring employees at 1 Kaļķu Street.

October 1
Reception of the Dean of FEEM and solemn event takes place at the Culture Palace «Ziemeļblāzma», dedicated to the 50th anniversary of the faculty.

October 13
RTU Design Factory is officially opened.

October 14
The events of RTU 154th Anniversary:

• plenary session of the 57th International Scientific Conference – the title «RTU  Scientist of the Year 2016» is awarded to leading researcher Kārlis Agris Gross, «RTU Young Female Scientist of the Year 2016» – is awarded to leading researcher Kristīne Šalma-Ancāne, «RTU Young Scientist of the Year 2016» – is awarded to docent Sandis Spolītis;
• in the Ziedonis Hall of the National Library of Latvia, RTU organizes a ceremony of the World Prize for Science and Culture; Rector Academician L. Ribickis is the only Latvian elected in the Interdisciplinary Commission of Award, which decides on the winners of the prize;
• the ceremony honours nine RTU lecturers – promoters of science and total growth: Elīna Gaile-Sarkane, Jānis Grundspeņķis, Jānis Krastiņš, Tālis Juhna, Oskars Krievs, Igors Tipāns, Kaspars Kalniņš, Māris Turks, Guntis Kuļikovskis.

October 20
The Faculty of Computer Science and Information Technology (FCSIT) celebrates its 55th Anniversary.

October 21
RTU Riga Business School celebrates its 25th Anniversary.

October 22
The 50th anniversary of the renewed Faculty of Electronics and Telecommunication (FET) is celebrated with a discussion of physics and interest education teachers and the solemn opening of the renovated building.

October 27
The new branch of the Health Center-4 – RTU Health Centre – Is opened in the premises of Ķīpsala Swimming Pool.

November 5
RTU Student Theatre «Kamerteātris» celebrates its 35th Anniversary.

 

December 12
RTU Rūdolfs Cimdiņš Riga Biomaterials Innovation and Development Centre celebrates its 10th Anniversary.

January 23
The Rarity Reading Room is opened in the RTU Scientific Library. 

February 1
The Research Centre for Engineering History of RTU begin its operation (the decision of Senate of RTU on 19 December 2016, Minutes No. 605).

March 11
The fifth graduation of doctoral students is taking place in RTU Great Hall, at 1 Kaļķu Street. 50 young scientists who received their doctoral degree in 2016 receive doctoral diplomas.

April 1
The Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning is renamed the Faculty of Architecture (the decision of Senate of RTU on 20 February 2017, Minutes No. 607).

April 21
The Senate of RTU (Minutes No. 609) decides to create the position of the Vice-Rector for Strategic Development and, as of 2 May 2017, to approve Artūra Zeps, previous Deputy Rector for Development, in the position.

April 29
RTU men’s volleyball team «RTU/Robežsardze» becomes Latvian champions for the second year in a row.

May 12–14
Sintija Pastare, a graduate of the Faculty of Materials Science and Applied Chemistry (FMSAC), becomes the European champion in the European Open Weightlifting Championship, at the same time reaching a new Latvian record in her weight category (up to 63 kg).

May 25
RTU Professor Jurijs Merkurjevs in the solemn meeting, is honoured with the award of Eižens Āriņš in Computer Science 2017, which is rewarded for a significant theoretical contribution to the development of Latvian computer science.

May 26–28
RTU swimmers correct four national records in the 93rd Latvian Championship – 50 m in the breaststroke (N. Maskaļenko), 100 m in the breaststroke (D. Bobrovs), 200 m in the breaststroke (D. Bobrovs) and 4 x 200 m in the freestyle swim (D. Bobrovs, G. Feldbergs together with team members).

May 29
The Senate of RTU (Minutes No. 610):

• awards the title of RTU Honorary Member to FEEM graduate Valdis Dombrovskis, the title of RTU Honorary Graduate 2017 – to the Director of Ltd. «Naglis&Err» Dzintars Naglis;
• decides to reorganize the Business and Innovation Department and change its name to – Business and Development Department (from 01.07.2017);
• decides to reorganize the Project Management Department and change its name to – Project and Development Department (from 01.07.2017).

June 1

• With the decision of the Senate of RTU on 29 May 2017 (Minutes No. 610) Sport Centre begin its operation (Director Egons Lavendelis).
• In the Laboratory House of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Transport and Aeronautics at 1 Paula Valdena Street, the Laboratory of Machine and Mechanism Dynamics named after Vilnis Eglājs (1938–1993) and his memorial plaque are opened.

June 2
The opening ceremony of the book «Dejas inženieris» dedicated to the life of Uldis Šteins, the long-term Artistic Director of the RTU Folk Dance Ensemble «Vektors» and the Head of the Latvian Dance Festival, is taking place at the Culture Palace «Ziemeļblāzma».

June 15
Commemorative medals of Pauls Valdens are awarded to professors of the Faculty of Materials Science and Applied Chemistry Ērika Bizdēna, Mārtiņš Kalniņš, Valdis Kokars and chemistry historian Uldis Alksnis.

June 26
The Senate of RTU (Minutes No. 611), based on the decisions of the faculties’ councils’ confirms:

• Dean of the Faculty of Engineering Economics and Management – Professor Elīna Gaie-Sarkane; she becomes the second woman in the history of the university to perform the duties of the dean (from 01.09.2017);
• Dean of the Faculty of Architecture (repeatedly) – Professor Uģis Bratuškins.

June 30
For the first time in the history of Latvia and RTU, a joint graduation of all nine RTU faculties and a gathering of graduates is taking place in the arena «Rīga» – it is one of the events of the 155th Anniversary of RTU, bringing together about 6000 people.

In June
RTU at «OS World University Ranking 2018» enters 2.5% among the best universities in the world. Among employers, RTU is recognized as the 193rd best in the world.

July 1
With the decision of the Senate of RTU on 27 May 2017 (Minutes No. 608) the Chair of Sports and the Sports Club terminate their activities as independent structural units, joining the RTU Sports Centre.

July 7–8
The first gathering of foreign graduates takes place.

In July
For the second year in a row, RTU Engineering High School wins the first place in the ranking of the best small schools created by the Atis Kronvalds Foundation and keeps the traveling award «Lielā Pūce» for another year.