On March 18 and 19, 2026, the Faculty of Information Studies (FIS) organised its traditional educational gathering for faculty, external collaborators and students, known as the Winter Camp. This year, for the first time, we co-organised the Winter Camp with the faculties and research centre that make up the newly established University of Novo mesto—the Faculty of Organisational Studies, the Faculty of Industrial Engineering, Grm Novo mesto – Centre for Biotechnology and Tourism, the private University of Novo mesto, and Rudolfovo – the Novo mesto Science and Technology Centre.
The 2026 Winter Camp took place as a two-day hybrid professional and research event and was designed to bring together researchers, educators, students, and professional staff. The camp was opened with a ceremonial address by the Dean of FIS, Prof. Dr. Matej Makarovič.
The two-day program included discussions on the development of scientific and research activities in Novo Mesto, lectures by local and international experts, and practical workshops on open science, artificial intelligence, sustainable development, digitalisation, and Industry 5.0.
Participants also took part in thematic workshops on effective communication, mentoring doctoral students, time management, and respecting copyright in the academic environment. Special emphasis was placed on connecting with the international research community, a goal further supported by the Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence and guest lecturers from abroad.
Assist. Prof. Maruša Gorišek, Vice Dean for Scientific and Research Work at FIŠ, on the Winter Camp: “The Winter Camp has traditionally been one of the central events of the Faculty of Information Studies in Novo mesto, where we bring together teaching, research, and professional staff to engage in various educational and professional activities. In doing so, we create a shared space for collaboration and professional development among the diverse profiles that shape the faculty and drive its growth. This time, we are particularly pleased that other organisations have joined the event, with whom we will soon embark on a new chapter within the public university in Novo Mesto. In addition to its educational aspect, the event provided a space to exchange experiences, network, and explore new opportunities, particularly in scientific research. The success of the event further confirms that we are on the right track and can look to the future with great optimism.”
The event provided an important platform to strengthen cooperation among researchers, institutions, and the broader academic community. It contributed to the development of new ideas and partnerships in science, innovation, and sustainable development.
With the FIS Winter Camp, we have once again demonstrated that such gatherings are exceptionally important for strengthening academic and professional dialogue and knowledge exchange, which contribute to the further development and integration of all institutions.
Special thanks also go to all the projects that participated in the Winter Camp: Spoznaj, the Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence “Technology and Innovations for Agenda 2030 – EU Global Leadership” (TIA2030), the Jean Monnet Chair European Industry 5.0, ENDE, and KTO3.
