The University of Split and the City of Split, together with German and French partners from Kiel and Brest, will hold the title of European Science Ambassador in 2026 as part of the prestigious Science Comes to Town project, which is part of the European University Alliance SEA-EU. This initiative, which connects leading scientific institutions and cities across Europe, promotes scientific excellence and brings science closer to citizens. The project was funded with 6 million euros from the Horizon Europe program. The Science Comes to Town project is being implemented in partnership with 11 Croatian institutions. The aim is to facilitate access to science, promote decision-making based on scientific facts and bring research closer to citizens of all generations.
Split will pay special attention to the development of science-based decision-making, with a focus on sustainable and informed solutions to current societal challenges.
More than 70 international organizations will participate in the creation of a comprehensive scientific program during the two-year project period.
“Science is not only the basis of progress, but also the most beautiful human activity. It promotes research, opens the door to new knowledge and helps us to understand the world we live in. The successful application of the City of Split for the Science Comes to Town project is a confirmation that we are building a society that values knowledge, research and innovation”,” said the Mayor Prof. Dr. Sc. Ivica Puljak.
“The Institute’s employees have been involved in initiatives to popularize science for years, with a particular focus on marine sciences. We are therefore very pleased that our efforts have been recognized through this project, which represents an important step towards further strengthening our mission” emphasized the Director of the Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries, Dr. Sc. Živana Ninčević Gladan.
The European Commissioner for Start-ups, Research and Innovation, Ekaterina Zaharieva, also emphasized the importance of this project: – Science, research and innovation is not just about discoveries – it’s about people. Whether it’s bringing science to the heart of our cities, helping young scientists build their future or turning ideas into concrete solutions, these initiatives are crucial. By connecting citizens with science and scientists with new opportunities, we are shaping a Europe where innovation is part of everyday life.
In addition to the City of Split and the College of Split, other Croatian institutions involved in the project are: the Institute of Adriatic Cultures and Karst Reclamation, the Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries, the Split-Dalmatia County Center of Excellence, the Robotics Association “Inovatic”, the Zenta Sailing Club, the City of Split Technical Culture Community, the Split Photo Club, the Split Cinema Club and the Marko Marulić Split City Library.
