On February 11, a voting session was held for the position of rector at Tallinn University, where Professor Priit Reiska was elected as the successor to the current rector, Tõnu Viik. The election process required a candidate to secure at least 63 votes in the first round, but none achieved this threshold. This led to a second round of voting between the two candidates who received the most votes: Professor Reiska and Professor Katrin Niglas. In the decisive second round, Reiska received 69 votes, surpassing Niglas, who garnered 43 votes, thus securing his position.

Reiska's term will officially commence on May 15, 2026, following the conclusion of Viik's tenure on May 14, 2026. As the director of the Institute of Natural and Health Sciences at Tallinn University, Reiska brings substantial experience to the role, particularly in the field of natural sciences education, having graduated in physics from Tallinn Pedagogical University. His election reflects a significant transition for the university, impacting its future direction and academic leadership.

The election of a new rector at a major educational institution like Tallinn University is also indicative of broader trends in Estonian higher education, where leadership changes can influence not only institutional policies but also the academic landscape at large. As Reiska prepares to take on this role, the university community looks forward to his vision and leadership over the forthcoming five years.