Lithuania's defense, education ministers to sign agreement on civic education for students

VILNIUS - Defense Minister Dovile Sakaliene and Education, Science and Sport Minister Raminta Popoviene will sign a cooperation agreement on Friday to promote civic and patriotic education among Lithuanian students and youth.

According to the Defense Ministry, the agreement commits both ministries to strengthening young people's resilience to threats, encouraging broader public involvement in national defense, preserving historical memory, and supporting the work of non-governmental organizations.

The agreement provides for continued collaboration between the ministries in areas ranging from fostering historical awareness and civic values to developing modern technological skills, such as cybersecurity and drone operation.

As the Education Ministry plans to shorten the 2025-2026 academic year for students in grades 5 through 10, it intends to offer a range of non-formal education activities.

Popoviene said these may include educational programs, camps and civic education sessions. She added that the ministry will look for ways to cooperate with the Lithuanian Riflemen's Union to organize survival and first aid training for students.