Faculty of Tourism Organised an International Conference on the Future of Student Mobility
On 20 May 2026, the international conference REX Conference 2026: Rethinking Student Mobility in Higher Education took place at the University of Maribor. The conference was organised by the Faculty of Tourism, University of Maribor, within the framework of the Erasmus+ REX project.
The event brought together more than 100 participants from various countries and institutions, offering a space for discussion on the future of student mobility in higher education. The conference focused on innovative approaches to learning, international cooperation, and the integration of digital technologies such as virtual reality, artificial intelligence and other tools of digital transformation.
The conference was opened by Assist. Prof. Dr. Marjetka Rangus, Dean of the Faculty of Tourism, University of Maribor. The keynote lecture was delivered by Dr. Charles Mansfield, who presented valuable insights into the future of higher education and international mobility.
The conference also presented the results and activities of the REX project. Project-related content was introduced by the partners: Dr. Vita Petek and Dr. Jasna Potočnik Topler from the University of Maribor, Dr. Erdem Erten and Dr. Kivanc Kilinc from İzmir Institute of Technology, Justine Cauvas from the University of Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines, Halvard Ones from Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, and Ida Velthoven from the European University Foundation.
The programme included four panel sessions addressing virtual reality in education, reflective learning, artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and the future of learning and mobility. Contributions were presented by Miguel Mira, Tjaša Alegro, Kamran Khan, Mihaela Franjić, Fidha Moothedath, Dr. Valentina Jošt Lešer, Matteo Zaralli and Filomena Vignjevikj.
The conference provided an excellent opportunity for knowledge exchange, sharing good practices, networking, and strengthening international cooperation among higher education institutions and other stakeholders.
We sincerely thank all speakers, partners, participants, organisers and supporters who contributed to the successful implementation of REX Conference 2026.
You are warmly invited to the REX Conference 2026: Rethinking Student Mobility in Higher Education, taking place on 20 May 2026 at the University of Maribor, Slovenia, from 09:00 (Brussels time, CET/CEST).
The conference will explore student mobility through VR and immersive technologies and will be held in a hybrid format (on-site & online via Microsoft Teams).
Online participation:
https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/340911380664593?p=baBZcMbtX74k2SvTkG
Meeting ID: 340 911 380 664 593
Passcode: se3Q6jS7
Please feel free to share this invitation within your networks.
We look forward to your participation.
Best regards,
Erasmus+ project REX team
More about the project: https://projects.uni-foundation.eu/rex/news/call-for-papers-rex-conference-2026/
On Thursday, 14 May 2026, the Faculty of Tourism of the University of Maribor hosted a round table titled Tourism in Times of Global Political and Economic Upheaval. The discussion focused on the impact of current geopolitical, security and economic developments on tourism, tourist destinations and the wider social environment.
The event took place in the new premises of the Faculty of Tourism UM at Trg izgnancev 1 in Brežice. The discussion was moderated by Assoc. Prof. Dr Marjetka Rangus, Dean of the Faculty of Tourism UM.
The round table brought together distinguished speakers from different fields: Prof. Dr Andrej Sotlar from the Faculty of Criminal Justice and Security, University of Maribor, an expert in national security, security policy and intelligence-security activities; Prof. Dr Boštjan Udovič from the Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ljubljana, an expert in diplomacy, international political economy and development studies; Matej Knaus, founder and director of Palma Travel Agency, President of the Association of Travel Agencies of Slovenia and President of the Strategic Council of the Faculty of Tourism UM; and Janez Stušek, lawyer, criminal justice and security expert, and former Director of the Slovenian Intelligence and Security Agency.
The speakers approached the topic from several professional perspectives, including tourism, destination development, international relations, security, crisis management and the tourism industry. The discussion highlighted that tourism is not separate from broader political, economic and security developments, but closely intertwined with them. Global political and economic shifts, security challenges, wars, terrorist threats, natural disasters, health crises and other forms of instability directly affect tourist flows, travellers’ decisions, tourism providers and destination planning.
The speakers also reflected on past security and crisis events that have significantly shaped modern travel and changed the way safety and security are understood in tourism. Among other examples, they highlighted the terrorist attacks of 11 September 2001 as one of the major turning points for contemporary tourism, after which security procedures, travel habits and risk awareness changed substantially. They also assessed the current international situation and considered possible scenarios for the future.
The speakers pointed out that crises have become an integral part of today’s tourism environment, which means that destinations and tourism providers need to respond quickly, thoughtfully and strategically. Despite numerous challenges, tourism continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience and a strong capacity for recovery. Adaptability, an understanding of the wider social and security context, and timely risk management are therefore essential for the future development of tourism and tourist destinations.
The discussion also addressed safety and security as important factors in travel decision-making, as well as the behaviour of individuals before and during their travels. Since complete safety cannot be guaranteed, it is important that tourism providers, destinations and, above all, travellers understand potential risks and take into account the situation in specific areas when planning their trips.
The round table offered a timely and multifaceted reflection on how tourism is changing in times of global uncertainty. The speakers agreed that safety, stability, trust, adaptability and strategic planning will remain among the key factors in tourism, both locally and more broadly across Europe and the world.
The discussion also underlined that, throughout history, the ability to respond to change and adapt to new realities has played an important role in the dynamic development of European society. Today’s changing social reality therefore offers an opportunity to reflect on the role of Europe in the international environment, while also encouraging strategic reflection on future business and development plans in tourism.
Second-year students of the master’s study programme Tourism Destinations and Experiences travelled to Malaga as part of the course Practicum 3: From the Idea to the Implementation of a Trip.
Within the course, students explore the entire process of planning and carrying out a trip – from developing the initial idea, preparing the programme and organising individual steps to the actual implementation in the field. They also take on the role of tourist guides, transferring the knowledge gained during their studies directly into practice.
Malaga offered them a valuable learning experience in a vibrant Mediterranean environment, shaped by cultural heritage, cuisine and the lively rhythm of the city. Such practical experiences are an important part of tourism studies, as they enable students to better understand destinations, travel organisation and tourist guiding through direct fieldwork.
At the Faculty of Tourism, we are extremely proud of our doctoral programme and our doctoral students. Therefore, we warmly welcome the initiative to mark 13 May for the first time this year as the EUROPEAN DOCTORAL DAY, a day dedicated to individuals who, through their research work, help shape the future of European society, science, economy, and culture. This day is particularly important because it is not only a recognition of academic excellence, but also a tribute to the perseverance, curiosity, and dedication of all doctoral candidates and holders of doctoral degrees who make significant contributions to the development of knowledge and the progress of society.
Doctoral studies do not merely represent the highest level of education. They are also, or perhaps above all, a journey of personal and intellectual growth. Research often involves years of in-depth work, searching for answers to complex questions, facing uncertainty, and pushing the boundaries of existing knowledge. This is precisely why the European Doctoral Day carries such special significance: it raises awareness of the value of research, critical thinking, and creativity in a time of rapid social, technological, and environmental change.
Europe is founded on knowledge, innovation, and cooperation. Doctoral researchers play a crucial role in this process, as their work contributes to a better understanding of the world, the development of new solutions, and the improvement of quality of life. Their impact extends far beyond universities - from the arts, humanities, and technology to tourism, sustainable development, economics, social sciences, and medicine.
The first European Doctoral Day is also an opportunity to reflect on the importance of supporting young researchers, creating a stimulating research environment, and strengthening connections between academia and society. At the same time, it reminds us that knowledge is one of the most valuable assets of contemporary Europe.
May 13 be a day when we are especially reminded of the vital role of the research spirit, scientific curiosity, and all those who believe that knowledge can change the world for the better.
We would like to inform you that the Faculty of Tourism, University of Maribor, will be closed from Saturday, 25 April 2026, to Sunday, 3 May 2026, due to collective leave (28, 29, and 30 April 2026) and public holidays.
During this period:
- no study process will take place,
- we will not be reachable via email,
- it will not be possible to receive postal deliveries addressed to the Faculty of Tourism UM.
Thank you for your understanding.
At University of Maribor, general, direct and secret elections for the Rector will take place on 12 May 2026, for a four-year term.
The following candidates are running for the position of Rector:
- Prof. Dr Dean Korošak
- Prof. Dr Mitja Slavinec
Presentation of candidates
The candidates will also present themselves at the Faculty of Tourism UM, where you will have the opportunity to learn more about their programmes and vision for the university, as well as ask questions.
The presentation will take place on Wednesday, 15 April 2026, at 14:00 in Lecture Room 4 (Trg izgnancev 1, Brežice).
Who can be elected as Rector?
A full professor employed full-time at the University of Maribor on a permanent contract, actively involved in teaching and research, and recognised as a higher education teacher of the university, may be elected Rector. The candidate must demonstrate the ability to contribute to the development of educational, scientific-research and professional activities, as well as possess appropriate leadership experience, expertise and personal integrity.
Who has the right to vote?
The Rector is elected by three groups of voters:
- higher education teachers, researchers, assistants with research titles, higher education associates and other staff involved in the teaching process,
- students,
- other university employees.
Where will voting take place at the Faculty of Tourism?
Voting will also take place at the Faculty of Tourism UM (Brežice - CPB 36) on 12 May 2026.
More information about the rector elections and the candidates’ programmes is available on the University of Maribor website: https://www.um.si/o-univerzi/organiziranost/volitve-rektorja/
You are kindly invited to attend the candidates’ presentation and take an active part in the electoral process.
We are announcing the 2026/2027 Call for Enrolment in Postgraduate Study Programmes of the University of Maribor. The first application period opens on 31 March 2026. There are 54 master's and 36 doctoral study programmes available for enrolment. General provisions of the Call, available enrolment places and admission requirements are available on the my.um.si website > Future Students > Enrolment in Postgraduate Studies.
The first application period for enrolment in the first year of master's studies will remain open until:
- 4 September 2026 for citizens of the Republic of Slovenia and EU Member States as well as Slovenians in the border regions and abroad;
- 30 April 2026 for citizens of non-EU Member States.
The first application period for enrolment in the first year of doctoral studies will remain open until:
- 4 September 2026 for citizens of the Republic of Slovenia and EU Member States;
- 30 April 2026 for Slovenians in the border regions and abroad and citizens of non-EU Member States.
More information about the Faculty of Tourism’s postgraduate programmes – the master’s programme Tourism Destinations and Experiences and the doctoral programme Contemporary Tourism Studies – is available at ft.um.si website at Prospective students>Study toursim>Postgraduate programmes.
Follow the application deadlines and apply in time for enrolment in the upcoming academic year!
On Thursday, 26 March 2026, the Faculty of Tourism UM hosted its traditional M&M Day in Brežice, an event organised twice a year. The spring edition in Brežice is regularly complemented by the FT Career Fair, which provides an important opportunity for students to connect with employers and explore options for internships, student work, or future employment. The autumn M&M Day, on the other hand, takes place in Ljubljana, where the study programmes are delivered in English.
M&M Day is designed to foster connections between students and staff and to create space for collaboration and the exchange of ideas in a more interactive setting. This year’s morning programme once again took the form of joint classes held in English, where full-time students from Brežice and students from the Ljubljana unit, who study in English, worked together in mixed groups. This approach encourages collaboration, active knowledge exchange, and strengthens connections among all students of the faculty, while also reflecting its international and inclusive orientation.
Following the joint classes, students attended the FT Career Fair, which was held for the first time in the faculty’s new premises at Trg izgnancev. A total of 15 tourism-related organisations presented themselves at the fair. Students had the opportunity to meet representatives of travel agencies, hotels, destination organisations, and other tourism stakeholders, and to gain first-hand information about career opportunities in the sector – from compulsory internships to student work and future employment. We are particularly pleased to see our alumni among the exhibitors.
The following organisations participated: Agencija Oskar, Turistična agencija Palma, Relax Turizem, ZPTM Brežice, Grand Plaza Hotel & Congress Center Ljubljana, AlpeAdria Booker, Terme Čatež, Terme Paradiso, Kozjanski park, Posavski muzej Brežice, Terme Olimia, Four Points by Sheraton Ljubljana, CPT Krško – SPOT Posavje, Happy Tours and Posavc.
The event enabled students to establish direct contact with potential employers, engage in meaningful conversations, and gain insight into expectations and opportunities within the tourism industry, helping them make informed decisions about their future career paths.
The day also included a joint lunch and informal networking, further strengthening connections among students. At the end of the programme, the Student Council of the Faculty of Tourism organised a fun quiz with prizes, bringing the day to a relaxed and engaging close.
Once again, M&M Day confirmed its role as an important meeting point for students, staff, and industry. By connecting students across different study environments and facilitating direct interaction with the professional field, the event fosters a strong sense of community and opens up new opportunities for collaboration and development.
At the Faculty of Tourism, University of Maribor, we celebrate culture, literature and creativity.
On the occasion of 8 February, the Slovenian Cultural Holiday, and 21 March, World Poetry Day, the Faculty of Tourism once again highlighted the importance of creativity and organised the USTVARJALNA FT literary competition for the second consecutive year.
An inspiring reflection on creativity, perseverance and the path towards one’s goals can also be found in the verses of the Slovenian poet Tone Pavček:
Ko hodiš, pojdi zmeraj do konca.
Spomladi do rožne cvetice,
poleti do zrele pšenice,
jeseni do polne police,
pozimi do snežne kraljice,
v knjigi do zadnje vrstice,
v življenju do prave resnice.
A če ne prideš ne prvič ne drugič
do krova in pravega krova,
poskusi vnovič in zopet in znova.
Students of the Faculty of Tourism know well that creativity plays an important role in tourism studies. In this field, innovative ideas and original approaches help create unique experiences, new perspectives and fresh ways of connecting people with places and cultures.
Tourism is not only about providing services; it is also about telling stories, designing experiences and finding new ways of connecting people with destinations, stories and cultures. Creativity enables the development of innovative tourism products, original promotional approaches and authentic tourism and hospitality services.
Encouraging creativity during studies is therefore not only an artistic challenge, but also an important competence for working in a dynamic and increasingly competitive tourism sector.
This year, more than 20 students participated in the USTVARJALNA FT literary competition. Some contributed selections of literary works that inspire them, while three students submitted original literary pieces. The authors are:
Ana Rokavec
Vladimir Nikonov
Ana Marija Papaz
On the occasion of World Poetry Day, we are pleased to publish their contributions.
Long live creativity!