EIB visits the future UL House of Letters and discusses development of the Academic Centre

During the visit, the EIB representatives observed the progress of the House of Letters’ construction, viewing all floors of the building, including a 500-seat auditorium, a meditation room, atriums and an exhibition hall, as well as the roof, where solar panels are planned to be installed. Special attention was paid to sustainability and energy efficiency solutions, including a thermopile system for geothermal heat extraction, modern climate control technologies and energy-saving initiatives to be implemented in the building.

“We were impressed to see the progress with the House of Letters and are eager to see the next phase. The Academic Centre is more than buildings – it is an investment in Latvia’s future, creating a campus where knowledge, collaboration, and sustainability go hand in hand. Building on the success of the collaboration with the University of Latvia, the EIB is open to discussing financing opportunities also with other universities and research institutions in Latvia,” said Paulina Brzezicka, Head of the EIB Office in Latvia.

Marina Ismaila, Senior Loan Officer at the EIB and responsible for the University of Latvia loan, said: “The University of Latvia is also my alma mater, so I’m proud to see it grow and develop with EIB support. These new facilities are not just buildings – they represent the opportunities for students to dream big. Who knows? Some of them might even become EIB bankers one day!”

During the meeting, the UL officials – Rector Prof. Gundars Bērziņš, Vice-Rector for Development Enno Ence, Director of UL Academic Centre Development Programme Gunta Rača and the team – introduced the EIB delegation to the current status of the project implementation, the nearest development steps and long-term goals. The Library is scheduled to be put into operation in the summer of next year, so that it could accommodate students as early as the academic year 2026/2027.

The EIB representatives were also introduced to the development of the master plan for the territory of the UL Academic Centre, as well as the progress and concept of the construction project of the House of Health and House of Sports, which will combine the functions of both buildings into one complex, promoting synergy, especially in the field of rehabilitation.

“The UL Academic Centre is one of the most significant projects in the infrastructure of higher education and science in Latvia. Its implementation advances the quality of studies and creates an environment where the three main pillars of the University – teaching, science and innovation – work in close synergy. Such an approach strengthens the Latvian economy by preparing highly qualified specialists and promoting the growth of research and innovation, and, furthermore, provides a long-term contribution to the development of society. We are delighted with the cooperation with the EIB, which enables us to implement this strategically important project,” emphasizes Enno Ence, UL Vice-Rector for Development.

These projects, both financed by the EIB, are part of the University’s “Green University” concept, aimed at creating a modern, sustainable campus that unites academic life in one hub. With EIB’s long-term support, including advisory contribution to shaping the campus development strategy, the Academic Centre is becoming a place where innovation meets tradition and students can thrive.

The EIB Group supports education and skills development across Europe and beyond. The Bank supports projects that modernise education facilities, strengthen research capacity, and promote lifelong learning. These investments help societies prepare for the green and digital transitions, boost employability, and ensure students have access to high-quality learning environments. 

Notably, the European Investment Fund, part of the EIB Group, together with the Development Finance Institution “Altum” signed a new agreement in November this year, further endorsing the EIB’s contribution to the development of education in Latvia. This cooperation gives banks the confidence to offer loans to students on more favourable terms – including an interest-free grace period and without the requirement for collateral or a co-borrower. With the support of the European Union’s “InvestEU” programme, up to 66 million euro will be available from 2026 to 2029, which will enable approximately 8800 students to obtain funding for their studies.

The UL Academic Centre is creating an interdisciplinary, open and innovation-oriented environment for excellent work and studies. The Houses of Science and Nature are already operational. In addition to the House of Letters currently under construction, in the future the Academic Centre is to be expanded with the Houses of Technology, Health and Sports, as well as the House of Students and Guests.