Slovenia’s Fourth Public University Gets Its First Rector

Prof. Dr. Matej Makarovič has been elected as the first rector of the University of Novo Mesto, Slovenia’s fourth public university and the first public university based in Novo Mesto. He will begin his four-year term on October 1, 2026.

With the election of its first rector, the University of Novo mesto has taken an important step toward establishing a new public university and integrating it into the Slovenian higher education landscape. The university brings together its constituent units in Novo mesto and represents a significant asset for the development of higher education, research, and professional work in southeastern Slovenia.

Prof. Dr. Matej Makarovič is a sociologist, university professor, and researcher. He has been with the Faculty of Information Studies since its founding and has, among other roles, served as dean. His professional and research work focuses on the digital society, governance, social change, and the development of modern societies.

“The election of the first rector is a significant moment for the University of Novo mesto and for the entire region. We are entering a period in which we will need to balance the opportunities afforded by our status as a public university with our responsibility toward students, staff, the environment, and society at large,” said Prof. Dr. Matej Makarovič upon his election.

The University of Novo mesto will focus its efforts on developing high-quality academic programs, research, and professional activities, as well as on strengthening cooperation with the local community, the business sector, and other domestic and international partners. Particular emphasis will also be placed on integrating the knowledge and research potential of its member institutions and involving them in the region’s development.

With the election of its first rector, a new era is beginning for the University of Novo mesto. As the fourth public university in Slovenia, it will make a significant contribution to the development of higher education and to strengthening the knowledge, research, and innovation ecosystem in Novo mesto and southeastern Slovenia.

**The results are provisional. If no appeal is filed within 48 hours of their publication, the results become final on the day following the expiration of that period. If an appeal is filed, the results become final on the date the University of Novo mesto Administrative Board issues its decision on the appeal.