Makarovich is the only candidate for the rector of the University of New Town

Makarovič is the sole candidate for rector of the University of Nova Gorica The sole candidate for the position of rector of the new public university in Nova Gorica is Matej Makarovič, dean of the Faculty of Information Studies at the University of Nova Gorica. According to the faculty, Makarovič will be the only candidate for this role. The elections for the new rector are scheduled for September 11. The decision to establish a new public university in Nova Gorica, which will connect all existing higher education institutions and the public research institute in the southeastern part of Slovenia, was made after years of effort by the government. The university was registered in the state registry in early July, and currently, all details are being finalized to ensure the institution can fully operate with the upcoming academic year. Currently, the university is led by interim rector Janez Povh, and the first rector with full authority will be confirmed through the election on September 11. The sole candidate for the rector position, Matej Makarovič, is the dean of the Faculty of Information Studies and a long-serving professor and researcher in the field of social sciences. In his program for leading the university, he has outlined strengthening the quality and recognition of the university, developing educational and research activities, connecting with the environment, and further embedding the university in the Slovenian and international higher education landscape. “In the establishment of the public university in Nova Gorica, we have reached an important developmental milestone for the city, region, and broader higher education sector. Ahead lies a period during which solid foundations must be laid while simultaneously creating conditions for its long-term development and recognition,” stated his words in a message regarding his candidacy. The university in Nova Gorica will unite all existing higher education institutions and the public research institute in Nova Gorica. This includes the private University of Nova Gorica with four faculties (faculties of health sciences, engineering, business and administrative studies, and economics and information technology), the private Faculty of Industrial Engineering, the public higher education institution Faculty of Information Studies, the publicly-private Faculty of Organizational Studies, and the public Higher School of Rural Management Grm Nova Gorica. A member will also be the Public Institute Rudolfovo, Scientific and Technological Center Nova Gorica. The headquarters of the university will initially be located in the premises of the Municipal Office of Nova Gorica, and once the renovation of the Nova Gorica National House is completed, the headquarters will likely be moved there. C. Š. The new public university represents a major step forward in consolidating educational resources and fostering collaboration among various institutions in the region. It aims to enhance academic standards, promote interdisciplinary research, and strengthen ties with both local and global academic communities. With the election of the first rector set for September 11, the focus will shift towards implementing the strategic vision outlined by the sole candidate, Matej Makarovič, who brings extensive experience in academia and research. The integration of diverse educational entities into one unified structure underscores the commitment to innovation and efficiency in higher education. The inclusion of both public and private institutions highlights a balanced approach to resource allocation and academic excellence. As preparations continue for the university’s full operational start, stakeholders remain optimistic about the potential impact on regional development and educational outcomes. The transition from interim leadership to permanent governance marks a crucial phase in the university's journey toward becoming a prominent institution within Slovenia and beyond.