Researchers from Stanford list refuse to celebrate University of Novi Sad's anniversary

A group of researchers from the University of Novi Sad, recognized on Stanford University's list of the world's most influential scientists, boycotted the institution's anniversary celebration, stating there is nothing to celebrate. The university rector, however, maintains there are grounds for celebration.

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If we compare ourselves to Europe, we see that we are very good, in some scientific fields we are the best university and for that a whole book is needed - I am not exaggerating at all, I just want to tell you.

The dissenting researchers expressed their discontent, with Stevan Armaković stating, "We want to draw public attention to the fact that the situation at the University is very serious. Our colleagues Jelena Kleut and Vladimir Mihić have lost their jobs, and now is neither the time nor the place for us to have any kind of celebration." Branimir Pavlić added, "By refusing to participate in the celebration of such a day, I do not wish to legitimize the illusion of normalization that prevails at our university."

These researchers view the university not just as a place for education and science but as an institution that must protect freedom and academic integrity. They allege that colleagues have lost their jobs due to political persecution, a situation they believe should not continue. They also feel their international success is highlighted only when it benefits the university's reputation.

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We want to draw public attention to the fact that the situation at the University is very serious. Our colleagues Jelena Kleut and Vladimir Mihić have lost their jobs, and now is neither the time nor the place for us to have any kind of celebration.

Rector Dejan Madić, however, dismissed these concerns as political discussions. "Look, you are politicizing. I have no problem, I don't fire or hire; I just talk about how universities function globally, and that's just how it is. I don't want to participate in those other things," he stated. He also claimed that the university had invited all the researchers, including those on the Stanford list.

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By refusing to participate in the celebration of such a day, I do not wish to legitimize the illusion of normalization that prevails at our university.

Despite the controversy, the university celebrated its 66th anniversary, highlighting its status as one of Central Europe's largest scientific and educational centers with over 48,000 students and 5,000 employees. However, no mention was made of the police presence on campus or the recent dismissals that the researchers are protesting.

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Look, you are politicizing. I have no problem, I don't fire or hire; I just talk about how universities function globally, and that's just how it is. I don't want to participate in those other things.