To enhance and develop achievements in science and research, several changes have been made at Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences (ViA). Two previously existing research institutes have been merged to establish the Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences Scientific Institute (ViAZI). A new Scientific Council has also been elected. The merger of the two ViA research institutes – the Institute of Social, Economic and Humanities Research (HESPI) and the Institute of Sociotechnical Systems Engineering (SSII) – took place in April.

On June 16, the director of the newly established Scientific Institute was elected – Professor and leading researcher Dr. geogr. Andris Klepers.