We are living in a time when biotechnology, agriculture, and food systems are undergoing extremely dynamic changes. The need for sustainable food production, the development of advanced technologies, and the pursuit of greater food self-sufficiency are placing the profession before numerous challenges. At the same time, these challenges open up new opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and the transfer of knowledge into practice.

It is therefore of great importance that researchers, educators, industry and the business sector, and all those working in agriculture, food production, nature conservation, and rural development create a space for dialogue, exchange of experience, and joint problem-solving.

For many years, the VIVUS Conference has served as a platform where knowledge and practice meet. We are pleased that this year as well, at the Higher Vocational College of the Biotechnical Centre Naklo, we will host experts and researchers who, through their work, experience, and ideas, co-create the development of a modern and sustainably oriented agricultural and food system.

I kindly invite you to contribute to the programme of the 9th VIVUS Conference with your research, projects, and best practices. I am confident that together we will contribute to the dissemination of professional knowledge, the strengthening of interdisciplinary cooperation, and the development of solutions important for the future of our environment.

I look forward to your participation and to welcoming you at the conference.

Dr. Marijan Pogačnik, Chairman of the Programme Committee