National-regional governance of STI

In Slovakia, the domain of Science, Technology, and Innovation is a central government competence. The responsibility for formulating policies pertaining to science and technology, industrial development, and higher education falls under the government and ministries. The main governing body of STI is the Slovak Government Council for Science, Technology and Innovation (SGCSTI), with Výskumná a inovačná autorita (VAIA) serving both as the secretariat and operational arm of the SGCSTI. VAIA was established in October 2021 under Component 9 within the Recovery and Resilience Plan, charged with enacting governance reforms, conducting evaluations, and providing support within the realms of science, research, and innovation. The primary goals for this newly established entity entail streamlining research and innovation assessments through international expert collaboration, recommending an updated framework for overseeing and financing research and development through the Government Council for Science, Technology, and Innovation, and formulating the National Strategy for Research, Development, and Innovation. Several supporting agencies, programs, and resources are dedicated to advancing Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI), overseen by diverse ministries and subject to varying regulations. Furthermore, eight regional governments possess some authority over areas such as secondary education, vocational training, and regional innovation, albeit their impact is somewhat restricted due to constraints in planning and financial independence.

National and regional S3s: organisation and governance

The Slovak Republic has released an updated Research and Innovation Strategy for Smart Specialisation covering the period from 2021 to 2027. This strategic document outlines objectives, policies, and measures in research, development, and innovation targeting sectors of the Slovak economy with high potential for transitioning towards higher value-added activities. Known as SK RIS3 2021+, this framework provides a blueprint for fostering the R&I ecosystem in the country, defining strategies and tools to achieve strategic objectives and establish ongoing processes for an efficient R&I support system. The primary aim of SK RIS3 2021+ is to develop priority areas capable of evolving towards activities with increased value while possessing adequate research and innovation capabilities. Oversight of SK RIS3 2021+ implementation rests with the Slovak Government Council for Science, Technology, and Innovation, which has established the SGCSTI Permanent Committee for RIS3 implementation to coordinate related activities. Stakeholders involved in RIS3 include representatives from government bodies, business associations, the Slovak Academy of Sciences, research institutions, and universities. The smart specialisation domains outlined for 2021-2027 are as follows: Domain 1: Innovative Industry for the 21st century Domain 2: Mobility for the 21st century Domain 3: Digital Transformation of Slovakia Domain 4: Healthy Society Domain 5: Healthy Food and Environment

For information on regional S3s, please return to the homepage: https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/assets/s3-observatory/index_en.html