Slovenian Ministers Advocate for Enhanced Euro-Mediterranean Educational Cooperation and Student Empowerment Fund  

Slovenia’s Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, Tanja Fajon, and Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Innovation, Dr. Igor Papič, have sent a letter to the ministers of MED-9 member states highlighting the importance of the Mediterranean region for stability, security, and opportunities.

The letter emphasizes Slovenia’s recognition of the 15th anniversary of the Union for the Mediterranean and the Euro-Mediterranean University of EMUNI, located in Slovenia. It outlines Slovenia’s increased support and financial resources for EMUNI under the leadership of its new President, Prof. Rado Bohinc.

The ministers stress the significance of youth empowerment and capacity building through education, research, and mobility, which benefit the entire region. They highlight EMUNI’s role in fostering intercultural dialogue and regional development, emphasizing the university’s commitment to scholarships, innovative programs, and regional partnerships.

The letter announces EMUNI’s Strategic Action Plan 2024-2029, which includes creating the Euro-Mediterranean Students’ Empowerment Fund (EMSEF) to provide scholarships for students from diverse backgrounds, especially in economically and politically unstable areas. It also mentions plans to set up knowledge-innovation hubs in South Mediterranean countries.

The ministers urge MED-9 member countries to co-sponsor EMSEF to enhance educational opportunities and regional resilience. This cooperation will contribute to knowledge exchange and support disadvantaged students and researchers, showcasing MED-9’s commitment to positive change in the Mediterranean. The letter underscores Slovenia’s commitment to making EMUNI a true knowledge hub connecting people, science, education, and research, while empowering youth in the region.