University of Ljubljana launches major Faculty of Pharmacy construction project

The University of Ljubljana ceremonially laid the foundation stone for the new Faculty of Pharmacy building, marking the beginning of a major investment project aimed at further developing educational and research infrastructure in the fields of pharmacy, clinical biochemistry and related natural sciences.

The new building, which will be constructed next to the existing Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology complex, will include modern lecture halls, research laboratories, an infrastructure center and a university teaching pharmacy, CE Report informs via University of Ljubljana's official website.

The facility will be designed in line with the highest standards of sustainable and energy-efficient construction and will significantly improve conditions for studying, research and cooperation with the wider community.

University of Ljubljana Rector Prof. Dr. Gregor Majdič emphasized the importance of the project, stating:

“Pharmacy is not only an industry, but also part of people’s everyday lives. Pharmacies are places of expertise, counselling and trust, while pharmacists play an important role in ensuring the safe and effective use of medicines. The new building will allow us to better respond to society’s needs and increase enrolment and training capacities in this key field.”

Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy Prof. Dr. Rok Dreu highlighted the significance of long-term support decisions:

“The construction project is the result of joint efforts by the University of Ljubljana, relevant ministries and numerous stakeholders. A key turning point was the inclusion of the investment among projects financed under the healthcare investment law. I believe the new premises will strengthen our educational and research work in the long term and justify the trust of everyone who supported the project.”

Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation Dr. Igor Papič placed the investment within a broader infrastructure context, noting that this is already the third foundation stone laid for a new University of Ljubljana building in the past two and a half years. He recalled that foundation stones were laid for the Veterinary Faculty in December 2023 and the Medical Faculty in February 2024, while the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering will soon follow.

“This government has launched a major investment cycle in scientific research and higher education infrastructure across Slovenia, because employees at higher education and research institutions, as well as students, deserve excellent infrastructure and financial conditions for work and study,” Papič said.

State Secretary at the Ministry of Health Jasna Humar stressed the role of pharmacists in the healthcare system:

“Pharmacists are one of the key pillars of the healthcare system and are often the first professionals patients come into contact with. That is why we have strengthened conditions for their development in recent years through investments in education, specializations and advanced knowledge. The new faculty building will significantly contribute to the further development of this field.”

Deputy Mayor of Ljubljana Boštjan Koritnik highlighted the importance of modern facilities for the academic community:

“The new building will not only provide better conditions for work and study, but also additional motivation and enthusiasm for students and employees. Such investments contribute significantly to the development of the city as a university and research center.”

The Faculty of Pharmacy construction project is one of the largest investment projects undertaken by the University of Ljubljana in recent decades. It is co-financed by the Slovenian Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, funds from the healthcare investment law for the 2021–2031 period, and the University of Ljubljana’s and Faculty of Pharmacy’s own resources.

The University of Ljubljana continues its systematic investment in modern infrastructure that enables top-level education, research and development while strengthening its contribution to social progress.

Photo University of Ljubljana