ŠtartUP – A perfect start of the new academic year
We have successfully wrapped up the fifth edition of the social-sports event ŠtartUP. Once again, the first Saturday of October was dedicated to relaxed mingling between first-year students, returning students, and the professional services of the University of Primorska (UP) – all those who have been, and continue to be, an invaluable support to students throughout their studies at UP.
In addition to the academic members and institutes of UP, the university’s centers and units also presented their work, showing students how they connect university activities with the wider community. A special role was played by the UP Tutors and the International Office, which introduced students to various opportunities abroad, especially in the context of UP’s participation in the European University Transform4Europe.
This year, more than 50 exhibitors joined us, enriching and diversifying our ŠtartUP even further. Thanks to their generous donations of gifts, the traditional ŠtartUP raffle was once again a big success. As in previous years, the event carried a strong charitable note: each exhibitor confirmed their participation with a symbolic contribution, which was donated in full to the charity Palčica Pomagalčica, specifically to the Catch Your Dreams fund for students in need.
We also remained faithful to our green commitment to sustainability. Everyone brought their own cup or bottle for drinks. At the Sustainability Corner, two second-hand clothing shops – 2.0 Skica and Fashion Finds Koper – presented their work. Through their activities, Naja and Barbara highlighted the pressing issues of fast fashion and explained the many benefits of second-hand clothing for the sustainable development of our planet.
This year we were also joined by representatives of the company Tosama. Within the framework of their project Zdravko, which promotes wider access to hygiene products, they engaged participants with a quiz to raise awareness of the importance of providing sanitary pads in public spaces.
The program was further enriched by the Society for Advanced Defense and Martial Arts Methods (DNOBM), the Pobegi-Čežarji Volunteer Firefighters’ Association, and Vertigo – Center for Aerial Acrobatics and Dance. The KO-MET Association once again ensured plenty of sports fun with frisbees.
As tradition dictates, participants enjoyed a delicious lunch of bobiči (traditional corn and bean stew), which they could also take home after the event.
This year’s ŠtartUP was attended by more than 500 students, welcomed by over 100 staff members and association representatives. Together, we managed to organize one of the largest student events at the University of Primorska, marking a truly enriching start to the academic year.
We wish all students a successful start, progress, and completion of the 2025/26 academic year!