On 20 March 2026, the EquiEdu2 – Equine Courses and Life-long Learning Programmes for Development of Equestrian Tourism in the Cross-border Region project was officially launched at Križevci University of Applied Sciences. The project is being implemented by Križevci University of Applied Sciences in cooperation with the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE), Kaposvár Campus, within the framework of the Interreg VI-A Hungary–Croatia Cooperation Programme 2021–2027.
The opening ceremony was attended by representatives of the Croatian Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, professors from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of the University of Zagreb and the Faculty of Agrobiotechnical Sciences Osijek, representatives of the Croatian Equestrian Federation, the Croatian Agency for Agriculture and Food, representatives of horse breeding associations operating throughout Croatia, representatives of equestrian clubs, and horse and equestrian sport enthusiasts.
The Mayor of Križevci, Mr Tomislav Katanović, also attended the event. In his address, he congratulated the University of Applied Sciences on the successful approval of the project and highlighted the importance of continuously developing new and attractive higher education programmes.
In her welcome address, the Dean of Križevci University of Applied Sciences, Professor Marcela Andreata-Koren, emphasized the importance of international projects of this kind for the institution’s development. Mr Željko Gagro, representing the Croatian Equestrian Federation and the Croatian Sport Horse Breeders’ Association, spoke about the project’s expected contribution to further strengthening horse breeding and equestrian sports in Croatia.
The Project Manager on behalf of the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE), Mr Árpád Bokor, presented the activities that will be jointly implemented in Kaposvár, involving lecturers and students of Križevci University of Applied Sciences, as well as representatives of horse breeding and equestrian sports associations.
As part of the EquiEdu2 project, Križevci University of Applied Sciences will develop new courses for its professional graduate study programmes, design and accredit two lifelong learning programmes, and procure valuable equipment for its equine practical training facilities.
The project is being implemented from 1 March 2026 to 28 February 2028.
