Celebrating Excellence and Future Ambition: Ceremonial academy marking the 80th anniversary
Celebrating Excellence and Future Ambition: Ceremonial academy marking the 80th anniversary
On March 8, 2026, the School of Economics and Business of the University of Ljubljana celebrated its 80th anniversary in the Linhart Hall of Cankarjev dom. The festive event brought together the rich historical heritage, institutional achievements, and developmental vision of the faculty, gathering representatives of the academic community, business, and politics in one place.
The President of the Republic of Slovenia, Nataša Pirc Musar, PhD, addressed the gathering. In her speech, she emphasized the role of the school as a bearer of scientific excellence, academic openness, and social responsibility, and pointed out that its development confirms the importance of professional and ethical conduct in times of complex global transformations.
This was followed by an address by the Dean of the UL SEB, Prof. Tomaž Turk, PhD. In his speech, he outlined the development of the faculty from 1946, when it had 348 students and one professor, to today's internationally accredited, research-excellent, and globally integrated academic institution. He emphasized the importance of cooperation with the business sector and leading international institutions, as well as the faculty's commitment to training responsible, critical, and socially engaged professionals. He also expressed his gratitude to former deans, professors, researchers, students, and all colleagues who have contributed to the development of the faculty over the past eighty years.
In his introductory remarks, the rector of the University of Ljubljana, Prof. Gregor Majdič, PhD, addressed the audience and described the school as one of the key and most strategically important members of the university. He particularly emphasized its interdisciplinary orientation, international recognition, and responsibility in shaping contemporary society, the economy, and the scientific community. He defined academic freedom as a fundamental academic value that requires a high degree of integrity, professional autonomy, and commitment.
The ceremony was hosted by actors Maja Martina Merljak and Klemen Janežič. The event was accompanied by an artistically designed program featuring excerpts from four short films depicting key periods in the school's development—from its post-war foundations to its contemporary internationalization and research achievements. The evening was further enriched by musical performances by the Ljubljana Madrigalists chamber choir, the orchestra, and soloist Saša Lešnjek.
Students Andjelina Arsenijević and Matej Mivšek added a special touch to the event with a short speech presenting the young people's view of the future, the challenges of modern times, and the responsibility they bear in a rapidly changing world.
The event was followed by a pleasant gathering in the foyer of Cankarjev dom, where guests enjoyed cake and relaxed conversation as they paid tribute to the faculty's 80-year history and toasted its future challenges and successes.