Matej Bel University in Banská Bystrica has officially joined the ranks of Slovakia's most important educational institutions that systematically develop modern, value-oriented, and socially engaged education. By awarding the prestigious Engaged School label, which is awarded by the Platform of Volunteer Centers and Organizations in cooperation with the Ministry of Education, Research, Development and Youth of the Slovak Republic, UMB was recognized for its long-standing quality, innovative approach, and above-standard work with students.

The Engaged School label is intended for educational institutions that systematically develop service learning projects – a method of learning that combines theory with practice and enables students to learn through community service. The aim of these activities is to develop civic responsibility, empathy, and practical skills that go beyond the scope of traditional education.

UMB has been involved in the concept of service learning for more than 13 years. Thanks to this, it is one of the pioneers of engaged education in Slovakia. During this period, many students from various faculties have participated in activities, helping to address the needs of local communities, schools, social facilities, and civic associations through university projects.

These projects are not just a form of volunteering – students also develop professional knowledge and practical skills directly in their field. They learn to reflect on social issues and look for ways in which the academic environment can contribute to the public good. At Matej Bel University, service learning is developed across faculties and in cooperation with many partners from the field. Projects take various forms, ranging from social and educational initiatives to environmental and cultural activities.

The Engaged School award reflects the work of teachers from four UMB faculties who, together with students, have been implementing service learning projects for a long time, even in non-standard environments, for example, in cooperation with institutions working with convicts, seniors, or disadvantaged communities. This award highlighted not only the pedagogical activities, but also the values of the university – an emphasis on openness, cooperation, and social responsibility. For Matej Bel University, this award is a confirmation of its long-term quality and, at the same time, a commitment to further develop the idea of an engaged university that combines academic knowledge with practice and the needs of the community.

UMB plans to continue expanding service learning into other study programs and strengthening cooperation between faculties, students, and external partners. It will continue to support initiatives that combine education, research, and public service, thereby fulfilling the university's vision as an active partner in social development.

These activities also represent one of the key milestones and strategic goals of the EMERGE European University Alliance, of which Matej Bel University is a proud member. Within EMERGE, particular attention is given to marginalized and underserved groups, who are priority target group of UMB’s community-engaged initiatives. By integrating service learning and socially impactful projects into our academic environment, UMB actively contributes to the shared EMERGE vision of strengthening inclusion, civic participation and societal responsibility across European regions beyond major metropolitan centres.

Receiving the Engaged School label confirms that Matej Bel University is among those institutions that view education as an opportunity for personal growth, social responsibility, and community cooperation.

On November 26, Vladimír Hiadlovský, Rector of Matej Bel University, together with Katarína Chovancová, Vice-Rector for the European University Alliance EMERGE, welcomed the teachers who were behind the successful acquisition of the Engaged School label. The meeting was an opportunity to personally thank them for their long-term commitment, quality work with students, and significant contribution to building the good reputation and value brand of UMB.

The rector expressed his appreciation for their professionalism, enthusiasm, and perseverance, thanks to which Matej Bel University can proudly rank among the leaders of engaged education in Slovakia.