Awards to the best graduates: "You represent our social capital for development"

On Wednesday, the Ministry of Science, Education and Youth awarded scholarships to top high school graduates in Croatia, recognizing their academic achievements on the national maturity exam. Twenty students were honored with cash prizes of 350 euros each, while additional recognition was given to those who achieved the best results in mandatory subjects at the higher level of the state exam. Seven students from vocational schools received special awards for scoring 100 percent on one of their exams, provided they had passed all required assessments. One student, who achieved 100 percent on two exams but did not fall into the previously mentioned categories, was also recognized by the ministry. The ceremony took place at the Ministry of Science, Education and Youth, where representatives from educational institutions gathered to celebrate the accomplishments of the young achievers. Josip Tomić, a student from Velika Gorica High School, spoke on behalf of the awardees, expressing his gratitude for the honor. He noted that the tradition of awarding such distinctions has been both motivating and inspiring, not just for himself but for future generations of students. Among the recipients was Mauro Kritovac from Zagreb’s XV. High School, who was awarded the Marin Soljačić Scholarship of $5,000. This prize recognizes exceptional performance in mathematics and physics. Kritovac expressed his appreciation for the tradition, emphasizing its positive impact on current and future students. The award was presented by scientist Marin Soljačić, who encouraged the students to maintain their curiosity, dedication to learning, and courage to think critically, regardless of the path they choose. Fran Đurkan from Sesvet High School won the Ante Žužul Award for the best result in Croatian language and history, receiving 5,000 euros. Đurkan described the award as a powerful incentive for personal growth and continued education, highlighting his commitment to using his knowledge for further studies, career advancement, and contributing to society. Žužul, during his remarks, emphasized the importance of preserving the Croatian language as a foundation of national identity and culture. Other notable recipients included Leopold Futivić from Zagreb’s XI. High School, who received the Ante Žužul Award for the best result in history, and Mislav Dujak from Matija Mesić High School in Slavonski Brod, who was honored with a scholarship from the ministry for his outstanding performance in the Croatian language. The awards were handed out by Zrinka Mužinić Bikić, the State Secretary of the Ministry of Science, Education and Youth. She praised the students for representing the country's social capital for development, noting their potential to become creators of new knowledge rather than mere consumers of existing information. Her words underscored the significance of investing in youth education as a cornerstone for economic, scientific, and cultural progress. The event highlighted the ongoing efforts of Croatian authorities to recognize and support academic excellence among secondary school graduates. With the nation placing increasing emphasis on quality education as a driver of long-term societal development, these awards serve as both a celebration of achievement and a call to continue striving for excellence.