Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra

The changes implemented by the Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra (SUA) in recent years are delivering measurable results. The quality of research at the university has increased by an impressive 205%, representing the third-highest increase among Slovak public universities.

The quality of research and creative activities was assessed within the VER 2026 evaluation by 169 independent international experts from 88 universities and research institutions across 23 countries. The evaluation process ran from September 2025 and included reviewers from prestigious institutions such as Princeton University and University College London.

"A 205% increase in quality confirms that the measures we have introduced at the university are producing clear results. This achievement reflects collaboration across our faculties and the systematic efforts of our staff in research, innovation, and the development of a creative academic environment. Together, we have implemented institutional measures that have strengthened both the quality of our scientific outputs and their impact on society," said Rector Klaudia Halászová.

She added that the result is also a commitment to continue improving the quality and international competitiveness of the university.

The Slovak University of Agriculture is also ranked among the top ten Slovak public higher education institutions and the Slovak Academy of Sciences. According to the VER 2026 evaluation, the overall quality of science and the arts at Slovak public universities and the Slovak Academy of Sciences has increased by 40% in recent years.

For the first time, the evaluation assessed not only the quality of scientific and artistic outputs but also their contribution to society and practical application. A total of 351 case studies focusing on societal impact and the research environment were included in the assessment. Experts evaluated 270 submissions involving approximately 10,000 employees from public universities and the Slovak Academy of Sciences. The evaluation covered 6,750 scientific, artistic, and other creative outputs across 28 research fields.

Minister of Education Tomáš Drucker emphasized that the quality of Slovak science is improving across the entire system and that the results clearly demonstrate the ability of Slovak scientists, researchers, and artists to compete successfully on the international stage.

The results of VER 2026 will also have a direct impact on university funding. Half of the funding allocated to research and the arts at public universities will be distributed based on the evaluation outcomes.

The VER 2026 results are available at: https://ver.cvtisr.sk/vysledky/