“Klaipeda University not only gave me the skills I needed, but also encouraged my interest in technology. During my studies, I had the opportunity to grow as a person and to use the latest scientific breakthroughs, which inspired me to create and implement my ideas. The University also has the IT-Robotics Laboratory, where students can deepen their knowledge of different technologies, such as robotics, IT, mathematics, and physics. KU participates in international projects related to the development and control of robots promoting students’ practical skills. I also really liked some of the lecturers, especially Prof. Dr. Vitalijus Denisovas and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dalia Baziukė, who not only gave me the knowledge, but also inspired me to take an interest in technology and science,” Darius shares his study experience.
Darius says he has no intention of stopping to improve, learn, and expand his business operations. He is currently working intensively on artificial intelligence projects and furthering his knowledge in this field. The entrepreneur is also a member of the Artificial Intelligence Association of Lithuania (AIAL). Useful AI projects will soon see the light of day. According to him, the ideas are being developed in cooperation with various scientists, including Klaipeda University.
Darius was introduced to the possibilities of artificial intelligence at Klaipeda University. He says that perhaps the most impressive and vivid memory was of KU lecturer, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dalia Baziukė, her innovative solutions, and ability to work with the latest technologies.
“Thinking back to 2005, I remember that Assoc. Prof. Dr. D. Baziukė presented her enhancement of AI-powered Moodle Learning Management System (LMS) that seemed to be straight from the future. Although hardly anyone talked about artificial intelligence in those days, she demonstrated an application that automatically analyzed each student’s progress and adjusted the difficulty of the tasks accordingly. For the more advanced students, the assignments got harder allowing them to go deeper into more complex topics, while for those, who struggled, the system provided easier exercises to help them catch up. For me, this was the moment, when I first realized that artificial intelligence could be used in education. Then I felt like I was looking into space – something distant, unknown, and very intriguing. It was an incredible source of inspiration, which I now realize helped to grow my own interest in technology and innovation,” recalls KU alumnus.
According to the entrepreneur, one of the most valuable things he has gained during his studies is the contacts with Klaipeda University lecturers and scientists. Cooperation with them has been beneficial not only during the years of study, but also for several decades afterwards in the development of various projects and businesses. Darius reveals that he often asks KU scientists and lecturers for advice when looking for certain scientific solutions.
Currently, Darius is actively involved in encouraging young people to choose Klaipeda University as a study destination and institution. He invites young people looking for inspiration and knowledge to choose Klaipeda University as a place, where they can grow, implement ideas of sustainability, and develop entrepreneurship. A couple of weeks ago, Darius Šoparas shared his career challenges and advice at the first ever event organized by KU – YOUR CAREER: Change and Thrive, which brought together a large number of pupils and students.
