Klaipeda University awarded EU-CONEXUS President Jean-Marc Ogier with an Honorary Doctorate
On October 14, Klaipeda University granted the prestigious title of Honorary Doctor to Prof. Dr. Jean-Marc Ogier, President of La Rochelle University and Chair of the EU-CONEXUS European University Alliance. This is a solid recognition of Prof. Ogier’s outstanding contributions to informatics and artificial intelligence, as well as his leadership in fostering international collaboration within the EU-CONEXUS alliance.
Prof. Ogier is a renowned academic with a prolific and very diverse career. Over a span of multiple decades, he has authored over 200 publications and has made significant contributions to research projects across Europe. His work has primarily focused on pattern recognition, artificial intelligence, and interdisciplinary innovation, positioning him as a true expert and mentor on a global scale. A prominent figure in the International Association for Pattern Recognition (IAPR), Prof. Ogier has held key leadership positions and represented France on the governing board. He is also widely recognised beyond academia, especially for his consistent collaboration with both public institutions and private enterprises to drive forward research and innovation in AI and digital technologies.
Celebration doubled as a reminder of ongoing challenges
Prior to the official inauguration, Prof. Ogier delivered a captivating public lecture titled, “Artificial Intelligence: Myths, Opportunities, Risks,” sharing valuable insights on the challenges and prospects of AI technology. The lecture attracted a large audience, reflecting a strong and widespread interest in his cutting-edge research.
During the ceremony, KU Rector Prof. Dr. Artūras Razbadauskas acknowledged Prof. Ogier’s immense contributions to promoting European cooperation and innovation through EU-CONEXUS:
“Thank you for your tireless efforts in representing EU-CONEXUS in Brussels. Your work has ensured that we are seen, heard, and valued across Europe. Together, as part of a consortium of nine universities, we are driving innovation and creating a unified Europe committed to sustainable coastal ecosystems.”
Upon receiving the honorary doctorate, Prof. Ogier expressed his gratitude as well:
“This is a great honour, especially from such a distinguished institution as Klaipėda University, with which La Rochelle University has shared a long-standing partnership.”
During the same ceremony, Klaipėda University also awarded an honorary doctorate to Prof. Habil. Dr. Boguslaw Buszewski for his outstanding contributions to chemistry and biomedical research.
Shaping universities of the future
Alongside his other achievements, Prof. Ogier is an ambassador of collaboration among and within universities. After all, EU-CONEXUS is essentially a large-scale example of a transformation that Jean-Marc Ogier implemented as a President of La Rochelle University by dissolving disciplinary faculties in favour of cross-disciplinary training structures. Besides facilitating close collaboration and transfer of knowledge, this structure is also designed for addressing ongoing and future challenges in a multi-layered, more relevant and actionable way than traditional academic structures.
Klaipėda University recognises Prof. Ogier as a trailblazer in both academia and international cooperation. His work continues to inspire and influence the future of sustainable development and technological advancement across Europe.
