The Faculty comprises seven departments – Biology, Physics, Geophysics, Geology, Geography, Chemistry and Mathematics – whose teaching and research activities are closely interconnected, making it one of the University of Zagreb’s leading constituent faculties. It also includes 28 institutes, the Botanical Garden and the Seismological Service, and has around 3,800 students.
Dean Ternjej recalled that the Faculty was established on 8 June 1946 by a decree of the Government of the People’s Republic of Croatia. Over the past eight decades, it has educated generations of teachers and scientists, evolved alongside society, and become what she described as a “factory of wonders”.
Investment in science and staffing
University of Zagreb Rector Stjepan Lakušić said that, despite operating in challenging times, the Faculty had become one of the key institutions in higher education and scientific research, distinguished by excellence, commitment and a constant drive to push boundaries.
He highlighted its interdisciplinary approach and its role in transferring knowledge for the benefit of society, stressing that investment in research and human capital is the best investment a country can make. He also noted the Faculty’s significant achievements through numerous research projects, many of them international.
Representing the prime minister, State Secretary at the Ministry of Science, Education and Youth Iva Ivanković said the Faculty’s 80-year history was proof of its quality and importance. She underscored that education remained a strategic priority for the government, which was currently implementing one of the largest investment cycles in the sector. “Investment in education is one of the most important investments in the future,” she said.
Long tradition of natural sciences in Zagreb
Speaking on behalf of the mayor of Zagreb, Deputy Mayor Luka Korlaet said the anniversary reflected Zagreb’s long tradition in the natural sciences. He noted that the City of Zagreb provides scholarships for 13 study programmes, eight of which are offered by the Faculty of Science.
The ceremony was attended by representatives of the scientific and academic community, and awards were presented to outstanding researchers, teachers and students. Anniversary celebrations will continue at 7 p.m. with the opening of the exhibition Hidden Collections of the Faculty of Science at the Technical Museum Nikola Tesla