The National Assembly of Slovenia has unanimously approved the establishment of a fourth public university in the country – the University of Novo mesto. The decision represents a significant milestone for the region, bringing together a range of existing higher education and research institutions under a single public framework. 

The new university will integrate several independent institutions, including the existing private University of Novo mesto and its faculties, as well as the Faculty of Industrial Engineering, the Faculty of Organisation Studies, the Faculty of Information Studies, Landscape Governance College Novo mesto, and the Rudolfovo Science and Technology Centre. Together, these institutions already enrol around 2,000 students, providing a strong foundation for the new university structure. 

Programmes under the unified organisation are expected to launch in the 2026/2027 academic year. The move is intended to streamline higher education provision in the region while strengthening links between teaching, research, and local development. 

At his inauguration, Acting Rector Dr. Janez Povh described the establishment as a long-term achievement, highlighting the effort to unify a previously fragmented academic landscape. He also pointed to the role of regional stakeholders, including local municipalities and the Chamber of Commerce of Dolenjska and Bela krajina, in supporting the initiative. 

The university will be based in the renovated Narodni dom cultural centre, with plans to develop a new campus on the eastern edge of Novo mesto. The project reflects a broader effort to strengthen regional cooperation and create new partnerships across education, research, and industry.