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SYMPOSIUM „Navigating Volatility with Mindfulness: From Individual Practices to Organizational Strategies”

NOVEMBER 14, 2024

In response to the challenges of the modern world, SMK College of Applied Sciences is organizing this symposium to bring together academic communities from Lithuania and foreign countries and representatives of science, policymakers and business leaders. The aim is to address the problems of societal interactions and rethink modern issues.

The ongoing crisis worldwide, such as the consequences of Covid-19, war, AI, Hybrid work, worsening mental health, aging and diverse workplaces, and financial instability, require new considerations by listening to various groups in society and combining science with useful advanced practices. 

The theme of the 2024 Symposium is dedicated to addressing the challenges that arise in our rapidly changing world. Specifically, the symposium focuses on the difficulties individuals, organizations and communities face in building resilience. We encourage discussions on mindful living, education and employment through open dialogue among various people, such as educators, employers, public sector representatives, and business leaders in the face of volatility, uncertainty, and the complexities and ambiguities of modern life. 

The discussions of the symposium will cover 3 main areas:

– Mindful Living: Nurturing Resilience in a Dynamic World

– Mindful Education: Nurturing Positive Learning Environments

– Mindful employment: Building Resilient Workplaces by Creating Meaningful and Caring Environments

Mindful living: Nurturing Resilience in a Dynamic World 

Moderator: dr. Inga Medžiūnienė, dr. Aleksandra Batuchina (SMK College of Applied Sciences, Lithuania)

Join presenters Dr. Rasa Katilienė, PCC (ISM, ICF Lithuania President) and Dr. Roberto Volpe (National Research Council of Rome, Italy) in exploring the multifaceted landscape of mindful living. This sub-theme discusses various dimensions of resilience amidst the complexities of modern life.

Expanded Sub-Topics Include:

• Elevating the Contribution of Older Adults
• Navigating Mental Health Challenges
• Empowering Youth in a Digital Era
• Digital Mindfulness for Personal Growth
• Holistic Healthcare Perspectives 
• Promoting Diversity and Inclusion

Round Table discussion: Mindful living – Resilience in The Face of Challenges

Mindful Education: Nurturing Positive Learning Environments

Moderator: Rron Lecaj (SMK College of Applied Sciences, Lithuania)

Explore the landscape of mindful education with presenters Dr. Lito E. Michalopoulou (Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece), Dr. Kristina Užule (EKA university of Applied Sciences, Latvia) and PhD student Brigita Miseliūnaitė (Kaunas University of Technology, Lithuania) on encouraging positive educational experiences.

Expanded Sub-Topics Include:

• Addressing Educational Challenges

• Cultivating Learning Communities

• Developing Resilience and Self-Regulation Skills

• Nurturing Soft Skills

• Fostering Entrepreneurial Mindsets

• Promoting Education as a Quest for Truth

Round Table Discussion:  A Future-Oriented Perspective of Education with Multiple Pathways of Excellence 

Mindful Employment: Building Resilient Workplaces by Creating Meaningful and Caring Environments

Moderator: Dr. Jūratė Čingienė (SMK College of Applied Sciences, Lithuania)

Join the key speakers: Dr. Jūratė Čingienė (SMK College of Applied Sciences, Lithuania), and Dr. Joan Camilleri (University of Malta) as they lead discussions on creating resilient, meaningful and mindful workplaces. This sub-theme will explore modern workplace challenges and strategies to develop meaningful, caring and fulfilling work environments that can adapt to contemporary challenges.

Expanded Sub-Topics Include:

• Leadership Challenges within Organizational Culture 
• Equipping Employees with the Future Skills
• Rethinking HR Practices: Attracting Talents
• Valuing the Experience of Older Workers
• Encouraging Self-Reflection Among Employees
• Cultivating a Compassionate Workplace Culture 
• Building Mindfulness for Social Justice

Round Table Discussion: Building Meaningful Workplaces 

Timetable

Practical Details for the Symposium

Important Deadlines:

Registration for Participation: November 3, 2024

Manuscript Submission for Publications: October 22, 2024

Poster Presentation Submission: October 22, 2024

All submissions (indicating POSTER or ARTICLE in the theme box) should be sent via email (conference@smk.lt) till the deadline expires.

Manuscript Submission for Publica