Minister Papič Visits Construction Site of ZRS Koper’s Competence Center

The Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr. Igor Papič, today visited the progress of the Competence Center for Olive Growing and Other Mediterranean Crops in Plavje as part of a government visit to the Coastal-Karst region. The construction progress was also visited by Andreja Živic, Member of Parliament for the Freedom Movement, and Mateja Hrvatin Kozlovič, Deputy Mayor of the Municipality of Koper. The guests were welcomed by Dr. Tilen Glavina, Deputy Director of the Koper Science and Research Centre (ZRS Koper).

The ZRS Koper investment in Plavje is currently in the craftwork phase, following the completion of the main construction phase. Work is ongoing on the façade, landscaping of the surrounding area, installation of electrical and mechanical systems, and other interior finishing works.

The project, co-financed by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, focuses on the development and research of Mediterranean cultures, especially olive growing, which has a long-standing tradition in this area. The Competence Center for Olive Growing and Other Mediterranean Cultures will serve as a research and development platform for promoting innovation in agriculture and will enable cooperation with universities, research institutions, and agricultural companies.

The completion of the investment, valued at 4.6 million euros, is expected by the end of this year. The center in Plavje will house various laboratories and facilities for education, research, and testing of new technologies and approaches in Mediterranean agriculture. The project plays an important role in preserving natural heritage and contributes to the advancement of scientific achievements in the agricultural sector.