Rector’s Holiday Message the end of the jubilee year 2025.

Dear colleagues, esteemed students of the University of Maribor,

as we approach the end of the jubilee year 2025, in which we proudly celebrated 50 years of the University of Maribor, we reflect on the path shaped over half a century by generations of researchers, educators, students, and all who believe in the power of knowledge. This year was filled with events that united us as a community and reminded us that a university is not only a place of learning but also a space of values — those that lead forward without the need for conflict: respect, understanding, cooperation, and human closeness.

This year we also commemorate the 100th anniversary of Ciril Zlobec, the poet of love and the Karst, whose thought speaks to us profoundly in this festive season: “Love is the only force that can transform the world without a single battle.”

In times when the world often stumbles upon tensions and divisions, at our university we have once again learned how important it is to preserve calmness of spirit, openness of heart, and perseverance of mind. We have proven this through achievements that marked our jubilee year.

This year we strengthened our research successes, joined new international partnerships, enhanced the quality of study programmes, and opened doors to innovations that raise the visibility of our university at home and abroad. We are proud of the progress of our students, the excellence of our researchers, and the dedication of our employees, who demonstrate every day that a community can thrive when united by values and vision.

As we light the festive lights, let us also ignite the light of mutual understanding and compassion. Let us awaken the awareness that change is not born from the power of weapons or loud words, but from quiet, but persistent acts of kindness, wisdom, and humanity. This is the strength our university has lived for five decades — and this is the strength with which we will build the future.

May the year 2026 guide us with the courage of knowing that we can change the world without battle:

with knowledge that enlightens,
with understanding that connects,
and with warmth that will mark the future with humanity.

Thank you to all who helped shape the story of the University of Maribor in this jubilee year 2025 — a story of openness, progress, and lasting commitment to the common good. Your work, your dedication, and your sincerity are the core of our strength.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 2026!

Prof. dr. Zdravko Kačič, Rector