The Central Technical Library of the University of Ljubljana, together with 20 consortium partners of the project "SPOZNAJ – Support for Implementing the Principles of Open Science in Slovenia," is adapting its operations to the principles of open science within the European Research Area. This includes open access to research results, evaluation of the quality and impact of scientific research using responsible metrics, and the involvement of citizens in scientific research activities. The aim of the project is to educate, raise awareness, and empower the consortium partners’ staff with the appropriate knowledge and competencies in the field of open science. Educational materials are being prepared, a support structure is being established, and mechanisms of operation within the consortium are being adapted in accordance with the principles of open science. By the end of the project, the consortium will hold at least 30 public lectures on current topics related to open science and organize 4 national events with international participation. The importance of open science will be promoted as widely as possible within the consortium, as well as among professionals and the general public.

The SPOZNAJ project represents a key step toward the systemic implementation of open science in the Slovenian research environment. Through an interdisciplinary approach and the involvement of 21 consortium partners from various scientific fields, the project promotes the development of new methodological approaches, support structures, and competencies essential for modern scientific work. It contributes to the advancement of scientific communication, responsible research data management, and the application of FAIR principles, thereby enhancing transparency, reproducibility, and accessibility of research. By establishing a competency framework, training data stewards, and preparing legal foundations, the project lays the groundwork for the long-term sustainable operation of research organizations in line with open science principles. Furthermore, SPOZNAJ supports the development of science policy, responsible metrics for research evaluation, and the strengthening of citizen science. The project not only supports existing research practices but also upgrades and directs them toward greater openness, collaboration, and societal relevance.

The SPOZNAJ project holds strategic importance for Slovenia’s development by supporting the transition of public research organizations and other stakeholders toward open, transparent, and responsible scientific practices. It contributes to the implementation of the goals outlined in the Resolution on the Scientific Research and Innovation Strategy of Slovenia 2030 (ReZrIS30), as well as to the digital and societal transformation of the national research system. By establishing support structures, training programs, and legal frameworks, the project strengthens institutional capacities, fosters collaboration between science, industry, and society, and enables better utilization of national research infrastructures. It enhances the integration of Slovenian researchers into the European Research Area (ERA), increases the competitiveness of Slovenian institutions in international cooperation, and opens new opportunities for public engagement in scientific processes. In doing so, SPOZNAJ significantly contributes to the sustainable development of Slovenia, the strengthening of scientific culture, and the broader accessibility of knowledge.