Slovenian Education Minister Proposes Moving Ministry to Novo mesto

Slovenian Minister of Education, Science, and Youth Borut Rončević has publicly proposed relocating his ministry from the capital, Ljubljana, to Novo mesto. Rončević views this move not as a symbolic gesture but as a serious political and organizational project aimed at genuine decentralization.

He explicitly rejects partial solutions, such as moving only his office or a few staff members, deeming them mere public relations stunts. Instead, Rončević champions the comprehensive relocation of the entire ministry and its hundreds of employees. This would necessitate extensive preparation for spatial, logistical, and transport conditions, along with gradual adjustments to work processes.

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We cannot talk about decentralization only declaratively, but we must start implementing it with actual moves by state institutions.

The minister sees this initiative as a crucial strategic shift, arguing that Slovenia must move beyond declarative decentralization and implement tangible actions by state institutions. Novo mesto is highlighted as a logical choice for a regional center capable of assuming a greater role in the country's development, supported by the region's broader potential, including its academic environment and a newly established university.

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Slovenia cannot talk about decentralization only declaratively, but must start implementing it with actual moves by state institutions.

Rončević believes relocating the ministry would signal that the state is strengthening all its regions equally, not just the capital. He estimates that with adequate political will and organization, such a project could be completed by the middle of the current government's term. This, he emphasizes, is a long-term change in how the state operates, not a short-term political maneuver.

In the interview, Rončević also touched upon broader issues within the Slovenian school system, stressing the need for an "ideologically neutral school" and addressing the complex societal challenge of the Roma population, which extends beyond the education system.

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The relocation of the ministry would also send a message that the state is strengthening different parts of the country equally, not just the capital.