UT students newsletter
Student Union news
The latest news from the Student Union.
Available on 15 December.
President of UTSU Eneken Riin Salong at ball: national university is a place where everyone can grow into a scholar and creator
Speech of the President of the University of Tartu Student Union Eneken Riin Salong at the anniversary ball of Estonia`s national university 106.
For us to celebrate this day again next year, we must understand our responsibility—the responsibility to pass on and uphold the intellectual heritage of the national university. This is not just a historical fact, but a living set of values. This includes Estonian-language science, academic freedom, critical thinking, and the preservation and renewal of our culture. These are the values that have shaped our national identity and give us the strength to be as courageous as we were a century ago and independent in a changing world.
But the legacy does not last by itself. It needs carriers—people who understand that every decision and action is part of a larger whole and shapes the future. Those who currently bear responsibility, those who teach, research, and lead, must pass on the meaning of knowledge and dare to trust the next bearer, the learner and the researcher, so that they will take on the responsibility and carry the national university forward.
Read more on the UTSU homepage
Photo by: Maria Grünberg
University Annual Awards
The deadline for submitting nominations for all annual awards is 20 December.
The University of Tartu recognises outstanding achievements of its members in providing higher education, conducting research, and serving society through its annual awards. The aim is to highlight their contributions and increase their visibility within the university and society. The awards are granted based on the university’s development plan and best practices.
➔ More information about the annual awards
➔ Teaching Staff of the YearAll students have the opportunity to nominate candidates for the Teaching Staff of the Year Award. Be sure to use this chance to acknowledge the lecturer who has made the biggest impact on you.
➔ Contribution to Society, Research, and Language Awards
If you have noticed a working group or a member of the university whose activities in societal impact, research, or language have been particularly outstanding, submit your nomination.
Field-Specific Annual Awards
➔ Learning action of the year
A nomination may be submitted jointly by at least five students.
University of Tartu student representatives: resolving harassment and bullying cases must be fair and comprehensive
We believe it is important to emphasise that, from the perspective of victims of harassment or bullying, cases of inappropriate behaviour have been handled unfairly or inadequately.
Based on articles in Õhtuleht and Eesti Ekspress, it has appeared that effective solutions have not yet been found for addressing harassment and bullying in a way that ensures victims feel safe and are able to continue their studies without disruption.
Student representatives believe that cases of inappropriate treatment involving both students and university staff— particularly those related to harassment and bullying—must be resolved according to clear and fairly applied rules.
Read more on the UTSU homepage
The National University’s ball takes place already on 1 December
Ball theme is “National University Ball a Century Ago”
➔ Tickets on sale at Fienta!
➔ Ball Facebook event.
The main performer of the National University’s ball is VENNASKOND
Ball theme is “National University Ball a Century Ago”
➔ Tickets on sale at Fienta!
➔ Ball Facebook event.
The National University Anniversary Ball tickets go on sale 31 October! 
There can never be too much dancing and laughter. We look forward to celebrating the beginning of higher education in Estonian on 1 December!
The traditional ball of the National University takes place at the Vanemuine Concert Hall, of which the doors are open to visitors from 18:00. The party starts at 19:30. During the evening, you can let yourself be captured against the photo wall and in the photo box and participate in the lottery. Of course, there will be no shortage of surprises at the ball either.
This year the theme of the ball is “National University Ball a Century Ago” — an evening that brings the glitz, charm and elegance of a century ago to the hall.
The performers will be announced soon. Tickets go on sale on 31 October 2025 at Fienta! Ball Facebook event.
UTSU invites you to enjoy free noodles at Tõllakuur on 24 September!
On Wednesday, 24 September, the University of Tartu Student Union is offering all students a free lunch at Tõllakuur – the much-loved and well-known instant noodles popular among students. You can enjoy the noodles between 11:45-16:00.
The aim of the “UTSU Noodle House” is to provide all students with a quick and comforting free lunch between lectures. If you are hungry, all you need to do is show up, bring your student ID (or other proof of study), and enjoy some noodles. Good company awaits, along with a chance to discover the exciting activities of the University of Tartu Student Union. Come along and bring a friend too!
🥢 24 September, 11:45–16:00
🥢 Tõllakuur (Ülikooli 18b).
We bother them. So you do not have to.
What does UTSU do?
- Representing student interests. UTSU represents students in the university’s governing bodies, such as the senate, councils, and other decision-making bodies, to ensure the protection of student opinions and rights.
- Improving the quality of education. UTSU works to enhance the quality of education, university infrastructure, and students’ living and learning conditions
- Raising awareness and sharing information. UTSU informs students about their rights and opportunities, and shares information about scholarships, events, and other topics important to students.
- Building networks and collaboration. UTSU collaborates with various student organizations and associations and takes part in student advocacy at both national and international levels.
- Social and cultural activities. UTSU supports and organizes student activities, events, and campaigns that help build the student community and improve well-being.
Know your representatives and contact us when:
- You face academic issues – e.g. unfair treatment, problems with courses, or want to improve study quality.
- You want to be heard – to raise concerns, suggest changes, or become a student representative.
- You need info or support – about scholarships, rights, well-being, or student opportunities.
Stay in the loop with us
- Instagram: @studentunion.ut
- Facebook: Tartu Ülikooli üliõpilasesindus
