Janša visited the Jožef Stefan Institute: Without you there is no Slovenian science

President of the Government Janez Janša visited the Jože Štampar Institute (IJS) today, engaging in discussions with its leadership about the future of science, research infrastructure, and collaboration between the state and the research sector. During his visit, Janša emphasized the importance of creating an environment where knowledge, research, and innovation would serve as one of Slovenia’s key developmental assets. He stated, “Without you, there is no Slovenian science,” acknowledging the contributions of researchers and staff at IJS to the country's development and international recognition. The meeting with IJS director Dr. Leon Cizelj and other representatives focused primarily on areas expected to shape future development. These included energy, artificial intelligence, critical materials, societal resilience, and more efficient transfer of knowledge from the research environment into industry. During the visit, Janša also toured the research reactor Triga, which has been operational for six decades this year. He was presented with plans for a new research reactor that could play a crucial role in training future nuclear specialists, scientific research, and supporting Slovenian energy projects. Representatives from IJS highlighted how new research infrastructure could significantly support both the Jek 2 project and the operations of the existing nuclear power plant. The infrastructure would also be useful for material research, production of radioisotopes, participation in international projects, and linking with leading research institutions worldwide. Cizelj noted, “Top-tier science and research create the greatest value when they are successfully connected to societal and economic needs.” According to him, the knowledge and research excellence of IJS can contribute significantly to the development of energy, artificial intelligence, and digitalization, as well as greater societal resilience. However, he stressed that this requires long-term development vision, stable funding for research, and close cooperation among the state, science, and business. The government emphasized its readiness to support strategic projects related to research infrastructure, provided they are scientifically prepared, included in national development priorities, and have clearly defined impacts on the country. Special attention will be given to preparing Slovenian research institutions for the upcoming multi-year financial framework of the European Union, aiming to increase Slovenia’s success in obtaining EU funds for research and development. The visit to IJS confirms that the government recognizes science and research as one of the fundamental pillars of long-term development for Slovenia, its technological sovereignty, economic competitiveness, and security.