A Ceremonial session of the Croatian Conference of Universities of Applied Sciences was held in the conference hall of the University of Applied Sciences “Lavoslav Ružička” in Vukovar. During the session, the Conference presented awards and recognitions to individuals and organisations that have made an outstanding contribution to the work and development of the Conference, both within its member institutions and beyond.

“I am convinced that professionally oriented higher education is entering a demanding yet promising period. If we remain focused on our students, on developing their real competencies, and on addressing the needs of society, universities of applied sciences will continue to play a clear and indispensable role. I firmly believe that cooperation and synergy among all relevant stakeholders will shape the future of our institutions. In the years ahead, we will not succeed as individual institutions confined within our own boundaries, but as a community that shares knowledge, builds partnerships, and pursues common goals. Cooperation among universities of applied sciences, collaboration with universities, the business sector, and local communities is no longer a matter of choice – it is a necessity and our greatest opportunity. If we regard one another as partners rather than competitors, and if we continue to foster trust and solidarity, we will be better equipped to overcome the challenges that lie ahead. It is through this spirit of cooperation that I see our strength and our future, because together we can achieve more – and together we can ensure sustainable growth and lasting success.

I congratulate all this year’s award recipients and sincerely thank everyone whose dedication, expertise, and selfless commitment have contributed to the work of the Conference. My special thanks also go to all those involved in organising and preparing our sessions, as well as to everyone whose proposals and active participation in discussions have helped us make well-informed and high-quality decisions,” said Željko Sudarić, President of the Croatian Conference of Universities of Applied Sciences and Dean of the University of Applied Sciences “Lavoslav Ružička” in Vukovar, in his opening address.