Esteemed and dear professors, scientists, employees, and students – women of the University of Rijeka!
On behalf of the University of Rijeka and our academic community, it is with pleasure and respect that I extend to you my sincere congratulations on the occasion of International Women’s Day. This day reminds us of the long and demanding history of women’s struggle for dignity, equal rights, and equal participation in society. From the first initiatives at the beginning of the 20th century to today, numerous advances have been made, perhaps still insufficient in certain domains. Above all, March 8 is an opportunity to express gratitude and respect to women who, with their work, knowledge, dedication, and irreplaceable contribution, keep building our society every day.
Our university is proud of your achievements in teaching, science, art, and professional work. Many of you, through your research, publications, projects, and administrative work, which is a key support and often remains in the shadows, raise the reputation of our institution in Croatia and beyond. Without your work, responsibility, and professionalism, we would not be as successful as we are today.
Family, upbringing, education, and the transmission of values are the foundation of every society. In all these areas, women play an irreplaceable role. At the same time, it is the duty of institutions to create an environment in which every person can develop their talents and abilities, in the spirit of mutual respect, cooperation, and academic freedom. International Women’s Day, celebrated on March 8 around the world, reminds us that equality is not an ideological issue, but a question of justice, dignity, and equal opportunities. Our task is to build a community based on these principles in which knowledge, work, and personal integrity are valued.
Our university, as one of the most important points of academic excellence in Croatia, fosters responsibility, openness, and cooperation in research and education. I take this opportunity to send a clear message from the university’s leadership: the University of Rijeka is a place of equal opportunities for all, a place of growth, development, and mutual respect, a place where the only relevant criterion is scientific and professional excellence.
Dear colleagues and students, thank you for everything you do for our university and for society as a whole. I wish you much success in your professional and personal life, and may you keep receiving the support and respect you deserve!
Your Rector
Prof. Goran Hauser, MD, PhD