In a recent podcast with politika.lt, the Director of ISM, D. Misiūnas, discussed the crucial elements required to unlock Lithuania's potential, stressing the importance of a strong education system, state resilience, and self-awareness. He highlighted that to enhance the value added to the economy, the current workforce needs to acquire new competencies, which necessitates a dispersed educational framework throughout the country rather than relying solely on a few concentrated centers. This will also involve strengthening municipalities and regional capacities to meet the growing demands of an evolving job market.

ILTE's head, Dainius Vilčinskas, added that for new technologies and investments to materialize in regions, there is a critical need for funding, infrastructure, and leadership. He pointed out that regions face challenges in attracting young professionals for public service roles such as police officers, teachers, and doctors. Vilčinskas emphasized the need for municipalities to offer viable housing options to make these areas more appealing to skilled workers, thus addressing the shortage of competent individuals willing to reside and work in these regions.

This discussion reflects broader concerns about Lithuania's demographic and economic challenges. As the country navigates the balance between urban and rural development, it becomes increasingly essential to implement strategies that not only focus on education but also on creating conducive environments for young professionals. Engaging communities in discussions about housing and local services will be vital in fostering sustainable growth and resilience across Lithuania.