Parliament on the report of the Ombudsman for Disabled People

The prestigious "Ivan Filipović" Award for Education and Childcare was presented on Thursday in the Croatian Parliament, marking another year of recognition for outstanding individuals in the fields of education and upbringing. The ceremony saw the awarding of three lifetime achievement awards and fifteen annual awards, highlighting the dedication and contributions of educators and childcare professionals across Croatia. This honor, established in 1964, is named after Ivan Filipović, a teacher, writer, and editor who dedicated his life to education. It stands as the highest accolade given to those working in the realm of child development and learning.

Minister of Science, Education, and Youth, Radovan Fuchs, emphasized the significance of this award during the ceremony. He noted that while the award originally focused on academic excellence, its scope has expanded beyond mere knowledge. Instead, it now serves as a beacon of inspiration, honoring those who recognize potential in children, students, and young people, and who work tirelessly to build the future of education in Croatia. Fuchs also highlighted the increasing importance of education in today’s rapidly changing world, where technological advancements and global challenges demand a strong educational foundation for societal progress.

According to Fuchs, education is one of four strategic priorities for the Croatian government, which aims to ensure accessible and high-quality education for all children. Among the initiatives being pursued is the creation of 23,000 new preschool spots, with the goal of guaranteeing a place for every child in a daycare by 2030. Additionally, efforts are underway to allow all students to attend school in a single shift, laying the groundwork for implementing full-day schooling models. However, Fuchs stressed that even the best infrastructure and facilities cannot reach their full potential without skilled, motivated, and satisfied professionals.

Vesna Bedeković, President of the Committee responsible for awarding the "Ivan Filipović" Award, joined in the celebrations, expressing gratitude on behalf of the Speaker of the Parliament. She underscored the profound meaning of being a teacher, describing it not merely as a profession but as a calling—a commitment to seeking the good hidden within the talents of countless students and pupils. Her remarks echoed the sentiments of many in the education sector, emphasizing the deep responsibility and passion required in this field.

The recipients of the lifetime achievement awards were recognized for their exceptional contributions to education and upbringing. Marina Čubrić from the Zagreb-based Nadbiskupijska Klasična Gymnasium received the award in the area of secondary education, while Professor Emeritus Marko Dragić was honored for his contributions to higher education. In the field of scientific and professional research related to education, Dejana Bouillet from the Faculty of Philosophy in Zagreb was awarded for her lifetime achievements.

In addition to these lifetime honors, fifteen annual awards were distributed across various sectors of education and childcare. These included early childhood education, primary education, secondary education, and higher education, as well as scientific and professional research. Recipients such as Ljiljana Grgić Karamatić from the Zagreb-based Daycare Center "Radost," Valentina Blašković from the Primary School "Ogulin," and Anita Mustać from the Šime Budinić Primary School in Zadar were acknowledged for their impactful work in nurturing young minds and fostering inclusive environments. Others, including Romana Halapir Franković from Zagreb's Fifth Gymnasium and Ivana Trogrlić Mandić from the Samobor Music School, were celebrated for their innovative approaches to teaching and their commitment to student development.

The presentation of these awards underscores the value placed on education and upbringing in Croatian society. As the nation continues to navigate complex social and economic changes, the role of dedicated educators remains crucial. The recognition of these individuals not only honors their personal achievements but also reinforces the broader cultural emphasis on the transformative power of education. With ongoing efforts to improve accessibility and quality in schools and childcare centers, the legacy of the "Ivan Filipović" Award continues to inspire and guide future generations of teachers and learners alike.