PhD Student Thembisile Sibanda Praises VMU for Admirable Support to Students with Varying Requirements

Lithuanian Journey: Culture, Research, and Inclusive Education

Embracing a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity, Princess Thembisile Sibanda, a PhD student from South Africa, embarked on an enlightening adventure in Lithuania as part of the Erasmus exchange program at Vytautas Magnus University (VMU). Her encounters were captivating, the people warm and welcoming, albeit subtly reserved compared to the exuberant dynamics back home in South Africa.

A woman of action, Princess Sibanda is not just a doctoral candidate in psychology but also a radio presenter and an active participant in diversity and inclusion initiatives. Drawn to Lithuania for its robust academic culture, international perspective, and the opportunity to explore a diverse research environment, she found herself immersed in the heart of Vilnius, Trakai, and Kaunas.

The highlight of her travels was the breathtaking Trakai Island, where she embarked on her first boat ride and marveled at the stunning views. Climbing the Gediminas' Castle in Vilnius offered a spellbinding panoramic look at the city's historical beauty. Trying Lithuanian cuisine, particularly the renowned pink soup (šaltibarščiai), was a one-of-a-kind experience, as it was markedly distinct from her usual fare.

Inclusive and International VMU

VMU takes pride in its proactive emphasis on social inclusion for students with disabilities, offering an array of accommodations tailored to physical, psychological, and emotional needs. This dedicated approach to diversity includes personalized study planning, assistance with personal efficiency and motivation, as well as emotional health and career guidance through mentors and the Student Well-Being Coordinator [1][2].

In 2025, VMU declared "The Year of Student Well-Being" and launched the "Peer-to-Peer" mentoring program, emphasizing student wellness and professional development [1][2][4]. The university also encourages students to advocate for their requirements and communicate them early [1][2].

"VMU's efforts to support students from diverse backgrounds are commendable," says Sibanda. "The staff were helpful and accommodating, making the university environment hospitable and conducive for independent research." She expresses her gratitude to Assoc. Prof. Gabija Jarašiūnaitė-Fedosejeva, the Head of the Psychology Department at VMU's Faculty of Social Sciences.

Compared to South African universities, Sibanda found the research environment at VMU to be more flexible, with a global outlook nurturing collaboration between students from various backgrounds [3]. While South African universities also foster international partnerships, she admired the uniquely immersive atmosphere in VMU's smaller academic community.

Experience, Advocacy, and Radio

Sibanda's visit to Lithuania profoundly influenced her academic interests, especially during the international academic forum "The Idea of University" commemorating VMU's 35th reestablishment anniversary. Discussions on curriculum transformation, interdisciplinarity, and the future of liberal education resonated deeply with her academic ambitions [3].

Inspired by her Lithuanian journey, Sibanda's doctoral dissertation explores how South African psychology curricula can integrate psychological knowledge and liberal education principles to prepare graduates for Society 5.0 [3]. As a presenter at Skills Village Radio, she champions the rights, inclusion, and awareness of persons with disabilities, engaging in crucial conversations and uplifting unheard voices.

Balancing her PhD commitments and radio responsibilities isn't easy, but they complement each other well, offering a welcome break from academic intensity and providing depth and insight into radio topics [3].

Sibanda cherishes the opportunities provided by the Erasmus exchange program, encouraging students considering participation to meticulously plan, engage with university staff, and embrace cultural immersion [3].she urges students with accessibility requirements to advocate for their needs and communicate them early.

[1] VMU Fosters Social Inclusion: Lithuania's First Higher Education Institution Prioritizing Access for Students with Disabilities. (n.d.). Retrieved August 8, 2022, from https://www.vdu.lt/en/news/vmus-fosters-social-inclusion-lithuanias-first-higher-education-institution-prioritizing-access-for-students-with-disabilities

[2] VMU Declares 2025 as The Year of Student Well-Being and Launches New Mentoring Program. (n.d.). Retrieved August 8, 2022, from https://www.vdu.lt/en/news/vmu-declares-2025-as-the-year-of-student-well-being-and-launches-new-mentoring-program

[3] The Idea of University: Transforming Education in the 21st Century. (n.d.). Retrieved August 8, 2022, from https://www.vdu.lt/en/news/the-idea-of-university-transforming-education-in-the-21st-century

[4] Amidst Adversity, a Voice Echoes: An Interview with Princess Thembisile Sibanda. (n.d.). Retrieved August 8, 2022, from https://www.skillsvillagelink.org/amidst-adversity-a-voice-echoes/

The culture in Lithuania, with its blend of history and modernity, offers an unique perspective for students seeking international education.
Princess Sibanda's encounters with the environment, particularly Trakai Island and Gediminas' Castle, were highlighted during her travel in Lithuania.
Lithuania's Academia, particularly Vytautas Magnus University (VMU), has a strong focus on health and well-being, as evidenced by their programs for students with disabilities.
Sibanda's radio work is centered around education and self-development, specifically advocating for personal growth and social media awareness, especially regarding disability issues.
In addition to education and research, Sibanda's interests include entertainment and pop-culture, revealing a holistic approach to career development and lifestyle.
The vital experiences gained from her travels to Lithuania have influenced Sibanda's work in diversity and inclusion initiatives, as well as her PhD dissertation regarding educational reform.
Sibanda's visits to VMU furthered her understanding of interdisciplinarity in education, emphasizing its role in preparing graduates for future societies.
Collaborations in liberal education at VMU extend beyond national borders, a testament to the university's commitment to environmental diversity and global interaction.
Despite the differences between South African and Lithuanian universities, Sibanda appreciated the interdisciplinary approach and the emphasis on student well-being at VMU.
Sibanda's success story in Lithuania serves as an inspiration for other students, highlighting the benefits of traveling, engaging in diverse cultures, and pursuing education and personal growth.