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At the ceremonial presentation of the Zois Awards and Recognitions for outstanding achievements in scientific research and development, held on 8 November 2026 at Cankarjev dom in Ljubljana, four researchers from the Science and Research Centre Koper (ZRS Koper) were among the recipients. These prestigious honours represent an important acknowledgement of the quality and social significance of their research work.
The keynote speaker, Minister of Higher Education, Science and Youth Dr Borut Rončević, emphasised that science is one of the foundations of Slovenia’s future. He highlighted its contribution to innovation, economic development and quality of life, as well as the importance of a creative research environment, collaboration and stable conditions for scientific excellence.
Speaking on behalf of the award recipients, Prof. Dr Slavko Splichal, recipient of the Zois Lifetime Achievement Award, expressed his gratitude and drew attention to the importance of a critical public, the exchange of diverse opinions and democratic debate. He stressed that science is founded on collegial cooperation and the critical and self-critical exchange of views.
The Zois Award for Outstanding Achievements was presented to Prof. Dr Borut Klabjan, a senior research fellow at the Institute for Historical Studies of ZRS Koper, for his research on the history of borders and memory in contemporary Europe. His research sheds light on historical processes, political turning points and collective memory, particularly in Central Europe and the Northern Adriatic. Through his work, he makes a significant contribution to understanding Europe’s past and enhancing the international recognition of Slovenian historiography.
The Zois Recognition for Significant Achievements was awarded to Dr Mateja Sedmak, Dr Barbara Gornik and Dr Zorana Medarić from the Institute for Social Studies of ZRS Koper for developing and providing a scientific foundation for a child-centred approach to the integration of migrant children.
The researchers developed an approach that places children’s experiences, needs and perspectives at the heart of integration processes. As part of the international project MiCREATE – Migrant Children and Communities in a Transforming Europe, funded under the Horizon 2020 programme, they highlighted the importance of incorporating children’s perspectives into the development of research findings, practices and policies. Their work represents a significant contribution to migration and integration research and to building a more inclusive society.
On this occasion, Director of ZRS Koper Prof. Dr Rado Pišot congratulated all four award recipients and emphasised that their achievements reflect the scientific excellence and social significance of the research conducted at ZRS Koper. He highlighted their contribution to understanding important historical and social issues and to raising the profile of the institution’s research activities.
The achievements of the award recipients confirm the quality and breadth of research conducted at ZRS Koper and its importance for the advancement of knowledge and society. We extend our sincere congratulations to all four award recipients!
