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The 100th project within the framework of the Marie Curie scheme COFUND assigned to Croatia
Croatia had the honor that the 100th project approved under the Marie Curie COFUND scheme was awarded to the Croatian scientific community and Zeljko Jovanovic, PhD, the Minister of Science, Education and Sports and Saša Zelenika, PhD, Assistant for science and technology, attended the ceremony award today (December, 12). The project entitled "NEWFELPRO" worth 7 million euro was submitted by the Ministry of Science, Education and Sports in cooperation with the "Unity through Knowledge" Fund, it is a project which encourages mobility of Croatian researchers, the hosting of foreign researchers in Croatian institutions, as well as the reintegration of local researchers after their stay abroad, and will be implemented over a period of five years.
"It is not a cliché when I say that I am extremely pleased to be here today to celebrate the100th project funded under the Marie Curie COFUND scheme. Since its launch in the year 2007, this initiative supported numerous mobility programs and as the Minister of Science, Education and Sports of the Republic of Croatia I am honored that this 100th project is a Croatian project “NEWFELPRO", said the Minister Jovanović, adding that investment in education and research is undoubtedly the best investment we can and must do for the future of Europe.
Today, Europe has faced one of the most serious economic crisis and we need to further invest in human capital, scientists, in order to expand knowledge and make new discoveries to offer innovative and effective solutions to the major challenges that surround us. The Republic of Croatia said a loud “yes” to Europe in a referendum on joining the EU at the beginning of this year. We believe that only strong, united Europe can offer better future to all its citizens - said the Minister.
The project "NEWFELPRO" is just one of the activities implemented by the Ministry of Science, Education and Sports, and one of the best ways to keep the most promising doctoral students employed while allowing them gain knowledge from the best European centers. The project will start on January 1, 2013 and the first call for proposals will be announced in March 2013. 40 percent of the total value of the project is provided by the EU.
"Croatia has recognized the importance of education and science for society development and the Ministry itself makes huge efforts to modernize the system so we can respond better to the challenges we are facing" the Minister said in his speech at the award 100th project award under the Marie Curie scheme COFUND. The award ceremony was attended by hundreds of guests, and it was opened by the EU Commissioner Androulla Vassiliou.
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