On Wednesday, October 2, 2024, the Faculty of Organizational Sciences at the University of Belgrade hosted professors from its partner institution, the Faculty of Organization and Informatics in Varaždin, University of Zagreb. The delegation from Varaždin included Full Professor Nina Begičević Ređep, PhD, Full Professor Neven Vrček, PhD, and Assist. Prof. Nikola Kadoić, PhD.
The visit began with a reception at the Dean’s office of the Faculty of Organizational Sciences, where the guests were welcomed by Full Professor Milan Martić, PhD, Full Professor Sandra Jednak, PhD, Vice Dean for International Cooperation and Finance, and Full Professor Dušan Barać, PhD, Vice Dean for Industry Collaboration and Innovation. During the reception, a constructive discussion took place regarding the ongoing cooperation and opportunities for enhancing collaboration between the two faculties, particularly in the areas of innovation and student startups.
After the reception, a meeting was held at the FOS Research and Development Center, where professors from both faculties exchanged experiences and best practices in strengthening internal and student startup capacities. The meeting was led by Full Professor Dušan Barać, PhD, with the support of the Research and Development Hub team, which included Full Professor Milan Okanović, PhD, Ivan Todorović, Jovana Rakićević, Ana Milićević, and Marija Vitaz.
During the meeting, the work of the Research and Development Hub (R&D Hub) was presented, focusing on activities that support startups and innovative entrepreneurship, as well as knowledge transfer initiatives. The R&D Hub showcased its key projects, such as the “FOS Innovation Incubator” and the “Venture an Idea” initiative. These projects provide support to students and young entrepreneurs. Additionally, activities focused on knowledge transfer through various programs were highlighted, including training programs, workshops, and internal capacity-building initiatives.
On the other hand, Professor Nina Begičević Ređep presented the Faculty of Organization and Informatics (FOI) plans to launch a Pre-Incubation Center in collaboration with Swiss Smart Factory, as part of a newly awarded project. The center aims to promote entrepreneurship and Industry 4.0 in Varaždin and the surrounding region. This center is expected to become a key hub for supporting new innovative projects in the area.
The visit concluded with an informal gathering and a late lunch at the Faculty Club, where the guests were welcomed by Full Professor Marko Mihić, PhD, Dean of the Faculty. Here, the guests and hosts continued their discussions on collaboration and proposed further steps to strengthen cooperation in the area of startup incubators.
This visit marks another step towards deepening academic and scientific collaboration between these two prestigious faculties, with plans agreed upon for future joint projects and initiatives.
