The popular-science spectacle SciHill today opened its doors on the science hill, which stretches between Horvatovac and Bijenička cesta in Zagreb, attracting more than 6.000 visitors of all age groups. The opening ceremony was graced by numerous distinguished guests, and the President of the Republic of Croatia, Zoran Milanović, also addressed the visitors.

In his address, President Milanović emphasized the importance of a critical and skeptical approach to the popularization of science. He stressed that while top sports can be easily popularized, top science, by its nature, represents an elite calling that is not for everyone and is difficult to make into a consumer good. Instead of mere popularization, the President emphasized the necessity of systematic and financially demanding work and the active role of the state in providing funds and incentives for those individuals who recognize a scientific calling within themselves. "Simply, the state must provide as many funds and incentives as it can so that people who recognize and feel it within themselves can engage with it a bit more," said Milanović, adding that precise data on the number of experts, such as engineers, that we educate are often lacking. He also touched upon the concept of scientific consensus, explaining that it is not about outvoting, but about an agreement to avoid confrontation, and warned for caution when making far-reaching political decisions based on such consensus.

SciHill, which had its grand opening today, May 17, 2025, is the result of many years of cooperation between three key scientific institutions located on this scientific epicenter of Zagreb: the Faculty of Science of the University of Zagreb (PMF), the Institute of Physics (IF), and the Ruđer Bošković Institute (IRB). These institutions have been shaping Croatian science and education for decades, and SciHill combines their well-known and successful programs such as "Day and Night at PMF," "Open Day of IF," "Open Day of IRB," and "Frizbijada," thereby creating a unique and integrated platform for the promotion of science.

Science accessible to everyone

The central mission of the SciHill event is to make science accessible, intriguing, and fun, with the special aim of encouraging young generations to actively participate in the process of creating new knowledge and technological innovations. Today offered visitors, among whom were a large number of elementary and high school students, the opportunity to participate in a multitude of interactive workshops, scientific experiments, and interesting presentations designed and prepared by researchers from PMF, IF, and IRB. It is expected that such a direct encounter with scientists and their work will encourage some of the young visitors to decide to build their education and future careers right on this science hill.

The area between Horvatovac and Bijenička cesta in Zagreb is not just a physical location; it represents an intellectual center where knowledge is generated and transmitted. Numerous faculty departments, research laboratories, and institutes that form the backbone of Croatian scientific production are located right here. SciHill uses this unique concentration of scientific intellect to provide visitors with direct insight into the world of research. The event extends through the laboratories of the Institute of Physics and various departments of PMF, as well as outdoors, where research stations are set up in tents, creating a dynamic and accessible environment from Horvatovac all the way to Bijenička cesta 46.

This year, the program at PMF is dedicated to the phenomenon of speed, a universal driver that shapes many natural and technological processes. Visitors have the opportunity to discover how speed drives everything, from chemical reactions accelerated by enzymes to light traveling through space. The program includes the ability to measure the speed of light, cause a bora wind, earthquake, or tsunami, control robots, "run" on water, create their own geographical maps, and observe how rocks from the popular game Minecraft look in reality. A tour of the PMF Botanical Garden is also organized. Participation in all activities is free.

Investing in the future of science

At the grand opening, alongside President Milanović, the attendees were also addressed by the envoy of the Government of the Republic of Croatia, dr. sc. Hrvoje Meštrić from the Ministry of Science, Education and Youth, and the envoy of the Mayor of Zagreb, Mr. Luka Juroš, Head of the City Office for Education, Sport and Youth. Their presence further confirms the importance of this event and the support that the scientific community has at the state and local levels.

Dr. sc. David M. Smith, Director of the Ruđer Bošković Institute, pointed out that SciHill is a unique opportunity to connect science, education, and popularization, allowing young people to experience scientific discoveries firsthand and meet scientists. "At 'Ruđer,' science is not just a profession, it is our calling and a tool for strengthening soc&iety through knowledge and innovation," said dr. Smith. He emphasized the importance of cooperation with the Institute of Physics and PMF in creating a vertical of education and research, connecting young talents with top science. He thanked the relevant ministry and the Government of the Republic of Croatia for their support through program funds and infrastructure projects, such as O-ZIP (Operational Programme Competitiveness and Cohesion, under which scientific-research infrastructure projects are financed). "However, the key to success is not only in modern infrastructure but in people – young scientists who will create new knowledge, strengthen soc&iety and the economy. Young talented scientists who are learning at PMF today, and tomorrow researching at IF or IRB, are our future. That is why we must be consistent and continue to invest in their education, provide them with opportunities for professional growth, and encourage them towards research excellence. This is our pledge for the future!" concluded the Director of IRB.

Demystifying science, bringing it closer to the general public, and encouraging young people to think about science as a future calling are the key goals of SciHill. Through games, experiments, and inspirational encounters, visitors have the opportunity to discover that knowledge is not just an abstract concept, but a powerful tool for understanding the world around us and the foundation for personal and professional development. The ultimate goal is to contribute to the creation of the most valuable capital of any modern society: excellent experts, advanced knowledge, and innovative technologies that drive progress.

State support, as emphasized by President Milanović, is crucial in this process. It is planned that by 2030, the state will invest 3 percent of GDP in research and development. If this goal is achieved, the path for future generations of scientists in following global trends and achievements will be facilitated.

The SciHill event lasts today until 8 PM, and a detailed program is available on the official websites of the involved institutions. This is an opportunity for all curious minds to peek into the world of science, participate in interactive content, and perhaps discover their own passion for research and innovation in Zagreb.