Švietimo mainų paramos fondas ŠMPF

Overview

The Švietimo mainų paramos fondas (SMPF), or Education Exchanges Support Foundation, is a Lithuanian non-profit organization established in 1994. Since 2007, it has served as the national agency responsible for administering the Erasmus+ program and other educational initiatives funded by the European Commission and the Government of the Republic of Lithuania. SMPF plays a pivotal role in promoting international cooperation and enhancing the quality of education in Lithuania by facilitating various exchange programs and projects.

History and Legal Framework

Founded in 1994, SMPF initially operated as a non-governmental entity focusing on educational exchanges. In 2007, it was designated as the national agency for the Erasmus+ program and other EU-funded educational initiatives. The foundation operates as a public institution under Lithuanian law, with its legal entity code being 300629875. Its activities are overseen by the Ministry of Education, Science and Sport of the Republic of Lithuania, ensuring alignment with national educational policies and objectives.

Mission, Vision, and Objectives in Higher Education

SMPF's mission is to promote educational exchange, foster international cooperation, and support the development of Lithuanian education. Its vision is to ensure that every individual in Lithuania has access to international educational experiences. The foundation's objectives include:

• Administering over 50 educational programs relevant to various educational levels and sectors.
• Enhancing the quality and accessibility of education through international collaboration.
• Supporting the professional development of educators and students.
• Promoting Lithuania as an attractive destination for international students.

Through these objectives, SMPF contributes to the continuous improvement of the Lithuanian education system and its integration into the global educational landscape.

Governance, Structure, and Independence

SMPF operates under the governance of a director, with Daiva Šutinytė serving as the director since 2007. The foundation's structure includes various departments and units responsible for different aspects of its operations, such as project implementation, partnerships, and mobility programs. While SMPF functions under the Ministry of Education, Science and Sport, it maintains operational independence, allowing it to effectively manage and implement a diverse range of educational programs and initiatives.

Accreditation and Quality Evaluation in Higher Education

While SMPF does not directly engage in accrediting higher education institutions, it plays a significant role in quality assurance through its management of international programs. By facilitating participation in Erasmus+ and other EU-funded initiatives, SMPF helps institutions enhance their educational offerings, improve teaching methodologies, and foster international partnerships. These activities contribute to the overall quality and competitiveness of Lithuanian higher education institutions on the global stage.

International Cooperation and Network Memberships

SMPF actively participates in various international networks and cooperates with numerous organizations to promote educational exchange and development. Key programs and initiatives include:

• Erasmus+: The EU's flagship program for education, training, youth, and sport.
• Nordplus: A program funded by the Nordic Council of Ministers to support educational cooperation in the Nordic and Baltic regions.
• Euroguidance: A network providing information and guidance on learning mobility opportunities.
• Europass: A tool to help individuals present their skills and qualifications effectively.
• eTwinning: A platform for schools in Europe to collaborate online.
• EPALE: The Electronic Platform for Adult Learning in Europe.
• Study in Lithuania: A national initiative to promote Lithuanian higher education abroad.
• UPinLT: A project aimed at enhancing Lithuania's image as an attractive study destination.

Through these programs, SMPF fosters international collaboration, supports mobility, and contributes to the development of a more interconnected and inclusive European education area.

Current or Future Impact on Higher Education

SMPF's initiatives have a profound impact on higher education in Lithuania. By administering programs like Erasmus+, the foundation facilitates student and staff mobility, enhances institutional cooperation, and promotes the internationalization of education. Looking ahead, SMPF aims to continue strengthening Lithuania's position in the global educational landscape by expanding opportunities for international collaboration, supporting the development of innovative educational practices, and ensuring that Lithuanian institutions remain competitive and responsive to global educational trends and challenges.

Summary

The Švietimo mainų paramos fondas is a cornerstone of Lithuania's educational exchange and international cooperation efforts. Through its management of Erasmus+ and other key programs, SMPF enhances the quality and accessibility of education, supports the professional development of educators and students, and promotes Lithuania as an attractive destination for international education. Its work contributes significantly to the continuous improvement and globalization of the Lithuanian education system.

FAQs

• What is the Švietimo mainų paramos fondas?

  The Švietimo mainų paramos fondas is a Lithuanian non-profit organization responsible for administering educational exchange programs and initiatives, including the Erasmus+ program.

• When was the Švietimo mainų paramos fondas established?

  The foundation was established in 1994 and has been operating as the national agency for Erasmus+ since 2007.

• What programs does the Švietimo mainų paramos fondas administer?

  SMPF administers over 50 programs, including Erasmus+, Nordplus, Euroguidance, Europass, eTwinning, EPALE, Study in Lithuania, and UPinLT.

• How can I contact the Švietimo mainų paramos fondas?

  You can contact the foundation at Rožių al. 2, 03106 Vilnius, Lithuania, by phone at (+370 5) 261 0592, or by email at info@smpf.lt.

• Who is the current director of the Švietimo mainų paramos fondas?

  Daiva Šutinytė has served as the director since 2007.

Organization Name

Švietimo mainų paramos fondas
Education Exchanges Support Foundation

Acronym

ŠMPF

Year of Establishment

1/01/1994

Control Type

Private

Entity Type

Non-Profit

Geo Focus and Coverage

National

Recognized by

n.a.

Affiliations or Memberships

n.a.

Number of Member Universities or Accredited Institutions

n.a.

Address

Geležinio Vilko g. 12
Vilnius
01112 Vilnius Lithuania

Phone

+371 85 261 0592

Fax

+371 85 249 7137

n.a.

Official Social Media Channels

Facebook

Not available

X (Twitter)

Not available

LinkedIn

Švietimo mainų paramos fondas's LinkedIn profile

YouTube

Not available

Instagram

Not available

Wikipedia Article

Not available

Unlock your University's potential: spotlight your Institution on UniRank for leads, local recognition and branding. Enquiry now to feature your University here.

Explore other Lithuanian higher education-related organizations and authorities.

Find top-ranked Universities in Lithuania.

Search for courses and scholarships with the uniRank World Universities Search Engine.