During his visit to Vukovar-Srijem County on February 18, 2025, the Minister of Science, Education, and Youth, Prof. Radovan Fuchs, Ph.D., visited the University of Applied Sciences “Lavoslav Ružička” in Vukovar for the first time.

During his visit, a working meeting was held between the Minister, his associates, and representatives of the University VEVU. Key topics included the development of professional studies at the University, new study programs relevant to the labor market in Vukovar and the county, new infrastructure investments – specifically improving student standards through the construction of a student restaurant and kitchen – and the European Universities Water Polo Championship “Vukovar 2025”.

While touring the new University building, Minister Fuchs expressed his satisfaction with the facilities, study programs, and teaching staff. He highlighted that the University VEVU is one of the few in Croatia that does not face enrollment challenges.

“The University VEVU can be proud of itself, and Vukovar can be proud of it. The careful and wise development of the University has led to this beautiful building and the creation of in-demand study programs. It is one of the few institutions without enrollment issues, its programs are highly sought after, and the student dormitory is full. This is particularly significant today when many student places remain unfilled across the Croatian higher education system. Studying here is both pleasant and rewarding. Today, we discussed future perspectives and visions for the University ‘s development. There is ample room for further growth, and as a ministry and the Government of the Republic of Croatia, we will continue to support successful programs and projects. As the responsible minister, I am pleased with everything that has been achieved here, and I am confident that even better things lie ahead,” emphasized Minister Fuchs.

The Dean of the University VEVU, Assist. Prof. Željko Sudarić, Ph.D., also expressed his satisfaction with the Minister’s visit and the meeting with representatives of the ministry. He emphasized that through the cooperation of the University, the Ministry, and the Government of the Republic of Croatia, significant progress can be made for the city of Vukovar, fulfilling the University’s mission and vision of making Vukovar the “Student City of the Future.”

“Together, we are working toward our goal of making Vukovar the student city of the future. As we celebrate 20 years of existence, we can all take pride in our student numbers, study programs, and overall growth. We hope that through the continued synergy of all stakeholders, we will attract even more young people not only from Croatia but from across the region. The University continuously revises and innovates its study programs in response to labor market needs. We are currently in the process of initial accreditation for two graduate programs—Local and Regional Self-Government and Management in Trade—and we hope that, in the near future, our University will enroll 1,500 students,” stated Dean Sudarić.