CU bridges science and practice: New nuclear-focused programme and discussion on the future of teacher education
Bratislava, 13–14 April 2026: The week at Comenius University Bratislava opened with high-level discussions on the strategic direction of education and research across several fields. The university welcomed Róbert Zsembera, Government Plenipotentiary for the Development of Human Resources in the Nuclear Sector and State Secretary for Higher Education and Academic Research. Alongside talks on strengthening cooperation in the nuclear field, the campus also hosted a meeting of the Association for Teacher Preparation and Education (APVU) with representatives of the Ministry of Education.
This week, two significant events took place at Comenius University, demonstrating the integration of theory and practice in science and education.
Presentation of a new joint study programme of FMPI and FNS
At the Faculty of Mathematics, Physics and Informatics (FMPI CU), the delegation was received by Dean Daniel Ševčovič and Vice-Rector for Science and PhD Studies Jozef Masarik. The programme began with presentations from the Department of Nuclear Physics and Biophysics (FMPI CU) and the Department of Nuclear Chemistry of the Faculty of Natural Sciences (FNS CU), both unique within Slovakia. University management then introduced a new joint bachelor’s study programme of FMPI and FNS, Nuclear Analytical and Diagnostic Methods.
Designed with a strong professional orientation, the programme reflects labour market demand and the STEP platform. It will train highly qualified specialists in environmental safety and radiation protection, nuclear energy (including fuel management and safety monitoring), as well as healthcare and pharmacy, covering areas such as biomedical physics, radiopharmacy, nuclear medicine and diagnostics.
The visit continued at the Department of Nuclear Chemistry of the FNS CU, this time with Rector Marek Števček in attendance, accompanied by Vice-Rector for Education and Social Affairs Eva Viglašová, Vice-Rector for External Relations Radomír Masaryk and departmental representatives. Discussions focused on technical infrastructure and the integration of theory with practical training. “I am pleased that Comenius University plays a key role in educating experts in this strategically important field, and proud that two leading specialists in nuclear science are part of the university’s leadership,” said the Rector Marek Števček.
Vice-Rector Eva Viglašová noted, “Comenius University Bratislava is the only university in Slovakia offering study programmes in nuclear physics and nuclear chemistry. It is therefore essential to build on the long-standing work of these departments, strengthen their cooperation and connect academia more effectively with external partners and stakeholders.”
The future of teacher education and mobile phone regulation in schools
On Monday (13 April 2026) afternoon, the mathematics pavilion at FMFI CU hosted a meeting of the Association for Teacher Preparation and Education. The discussion focused on key developments in Slovak education.
The main topics included:
- transformation of practical training in teacher education
- role of faculty schools and facilities
- research within a national development project examining the effectiveness of mobile phone regulation in primary schools.
Taken together, the two meetings underscored the central role of Comenius University in preparing experts: whether in nuclear safety or in the modern training of future teachers.