Novo mesto, 1 October 2026 – On Wednesday, 30 September 2026, a formal inauguration ceremony for Prof. Dr Matej Makarovič, the first Rector of the University of Novo mesto, was held at the Narodni dom in Novo mesto. With the commencement of his four-year term, the university has formally entered a new phase of its development.
Prof. Matej Makarovič, PhD, a sociologist, higher education lecturer and researcher, was elected the first Rector of the University of Novo mesto in September. In his first speech as Rector, he emphasised the responsibility that comes with leading the first public university headquartered in Novo mesto, as well as the importance of strengthening cooperation between the university’s member institutions, developing high-quality teaching and research, and collaborating with industry and the wider community. He also highlighted the continued development of modern teaching approaches, the use of technology and the expansion of micro-credential provision.
The University of Novo mesto is Slovenia’s fourth public university and brings together eight higher education institutions. Its establishment represents an important step forward for higher education, research and professional activities in south-eastern Slovenia. The university has more than 2,000 students, and its development will also focus on improving access to higher education, internationalisation and closer cooperation with industry, the public sector and the non-governmental sector.
The ceremony also provided an opportunity to thank Prof. Janez Povh, PhD, who led the university as Acting Rector during its establishment and registration and made a significant contribution to the launch of its activities.
With the start of the new academic year, the University of Novo mesto is opening a new chapter as Slovenia’s fourth public university. The Faculty of Industrial Engineering is among its member institutions.
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