Estimated students. It is with great pleasure that I welcome you at the beginning of the new academic year at the University of Maribor

I extend a particularly warm welcome to all the freshmen who are crossing the doorstep of our university today for the first time. This is a new step for you that opens the door to the world of knowledge, creativity and opportunities for personal and career development. In the student ranks, I also welcome all international students who have chosen the University of Maribor as their educational center. I believe that in our academic environment you will find not only superior knowledge, but also a supportive community that will help you integrate into your new environment. Your presence enriches our university and contributes to the creation of an international and multicultural spirit.

Our university is not just an educational or research institution, but a community in which we build and shape the future together. Your participation in this process is crucial, because it is your drive, curiosity and efforts to acquire the knowledge and competences you need and why you are here that make the university alive and dynamic. I believe that this year will also be full of challenges that will require your dedication and effort, but it is these challenges that will shape your future and lead you to success.

Our mission at the University of Maribor is clear – student-centred education, which we build on with scientific research and innovation. Our goal is to equip you with quality knowledge and help you gain your first important experience. That’s why we include you in projects and activities where you can develop your talents, think critically and co-create solutions for a better future. We therefore closely connect your studies with the economy and working environments for which we are preparing you. At the same time, your openness to new ideas, challenges and collaborations is important. We are also paying more and more attention to the field of green and digital transition, as we are aware that we have to prepare you for a future that will be sustainable and for jobs that will solve many unknown challenges. I invite you to participate in the workshops, trainings and other events that we organize in this direction, as this way you will gain additional knowledge and skills that will help you adapt to rapid changes.

At the University of Maribor, we make sure that you have many opportunities for all-round development – both in the academic and extracurricular fields. That is why I advise you on this occasion to explore and take advantage of as many options available to you as possible. There will be no shortage of these at the University of Maribor. We offer you a rich range of extracurricular activities, including projects of the UM Student Council, services of the UM Career Center, international exchanges within the Erasmus+ program and other activities connected under the umbrella of the UM Student Center. Use your study time to research and learn. Strengthen your personal foundations and build bonds that will last a lifetime.

I invite you to take your studies seriously, with enthusiasm and dedication, because this is a period that will shape your future. Do not take the easy way out, because the real value is not always a quick solution, but rather hard work and the pursuit of deep, quality and lasting knowledge that will benefit you throughout your life. Remember that your academic performance is primarily in your hands, so take responsibility for your progress and academic success. But know that you are not alone on your study journey. You will be accompanied by our dedicated higher education teachers, mentors, and higher education colleagues who will guide, inspire and encourage you to face challenges with their knowledge, experience and support. Make the most of the opportunities that come your way. In case of problems, tutors, professional services and many support services are available. Together, we will create a stimulating study environment where you can develop your potential and achieve your goals, while also growing as a person.

Let this academic year be an opportunity for new beginnings, achievements and wonderful friendships. I wish you all a successful year, full of knowledge and experience that will shape you into successful individuals, ready for the challenges of the future. The University of Maribor is here to support you on this journey, and I am sure that together we will write new success stories.

I wish you a successful academic year 2024/2025!

Prof. Dr. Zdravko Kačič, Rector of the University of Maribor