News

On December 31, our university's former rector, President Arnold Rüütel, passed away and embarked on his eternal journey.

Arnold Rüütel was born on May 10, 1928, in Saaremaa, Laimjala parish. After completing his studies at the Jäneda Agricultural Technical School, Rüütel worked as a senior agronomist in Saaremaa, and later became a teacher at the Tartu School of Agricultural Mechanization.

In 1957, Arnold Rüütel became the chief zootechnician at the Experimental Base of the Estonian Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, and from 1963 to 1969, he served as the director of the Tartu Demonstration Collective Farm. During this time, he also graduated in 1964 from the Estonian Agricultural Academy with a degree in agronomy.

In 1969, Arnold Rüütel was appointed rector of the Estonian Agricultural Academy. Alongside his duties as rector, he remained actively involved in scientific research.

From 1977 onwards, Arnold Rüütel held several high-ranking state positions, and in 1983, he was elected Chairman of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the Estonian SSR.

Arnold Rüütel played a significant role in the preparation and adoption of the Declaration of Sovereignty of Estonia on November 16, 1988, which essentially marked the beginning of the dissolution of the Soviet Union. He served as Chairman of the Estonian Supreme Council from 1990 to 1992. On August 20, 1991, the Supreme Council of the Republic of Estonia declared the restoration of Estonia's independence, and on September 17, 1991, Estonia was admitted as a full member of the United Nations. As a national leader, Arnold Rüütel played a key role in rallying the people and political forces for this common goal.

Alongside his work in state leadership, Arnold Rüütel continued his scientific endeavors, earning a Doctor of Agricultural Sciences degree in 1991.

From 2001 to 2006, Arnold Rüütel served as the President of the Republic of Estonia.

Throughout his life, Arnold Rüütel maintained a close connection with our university, visiting on significant occasions and participating in alumni activities. He was an honorary alumnus of the Estonian University of Life Sciences.

With his determination, calmness, caring attitude, and respect for rural life and the homeland, he earned the admiration of the entire nation and our university community. In his greetings to the University of Life Sciences family, he always emphasized the importance of knowledge and scientific approaches. He stressed that research and education must go hand in hand, as the engine of a country's development lies in the application of scientific and technological advancements. Rüütel reminded us that the future of rural Estonia is largely in our hands.

We will always remember Arnold Rüütel with gratitude. Our deepest condolences to his family and friends.