These include the development of innovative research, participation in higher education, the transfer of knowledge to the economy to promote the creation of new high-tech products, and the strengthening of social awareness of the importance and necessity of knowledge and science in the modern world. RBI fulfils these tasks in cooperation with universities, scientific institutes and other related institutions in Croatia and internationally.

One of the European Union's goals for the coming period is to promote the green and digital transition, for which STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) skills are crucial. Currently, one in five young people in Europe completes higher education in a STEM subject, which is less than two million STEM graduates per year. To increase this number, stronger links and cooperation between stakeholders in formal, informal and non-formal education, businesses and civil society organisations are recommended to ensure meaningful engagement of all societal actors to increase interest in STEM careers.

The Ruđer Bošković Institute recognises its key role in the continuous promotion of science popularisation activities, such as a series of popular science lectures open to the public (Science Thursday, Night Under the Stars at Ruđer, lectures on the occasion of the Nobel Prize ceremony, etc.) traditionally held at the Institute, as well as participation in numerous European and international projects and collaborations with foundations, companies and other related institutions.

Open Day at the RBI

The most important and best-known event at which RBI opens its doors to the general public is undoubtedly the RBI Open Day. The tradition of open days dates back to 2004 and was originally initiated by the late Dr Greta Pifat-Mrzljak, whose enthusiasm was passed on to the younger generations. To date, the institute has welcomed over 40,000 visitors on these open days. The tradition has continued despite the pandemic (two virtual editions) and the ongoing construction work at the institute.

In 2023, the Frisbee event was launched together with the Institute of Physics. This unique event aims to combine the best elements of our activities developed over the past decades – lab visits for organised school groups, content in the park for visitors of all ages and various video materials for virtual visitors of all generations who cannot visit us in person.

In addition to the activities organised by the Institute, our scientists actively participate in a variety of educational and popular science activities organised by civil society associations, educational institutions (kindergartens, schools, universities) and public or private institutions and companies. Under the common name 'Ruđer’s Interactive Laboratory', we endeavour to reach as many users as possible, both in person and virtually. For example, we have been partners in organising the Science Picnic from the very beginning and our scientists actively participate in the Science Festival, the International Children's Festival in Šibenik and many other STEM fairs and festivals.

By strengthening its activities in the field of science popularisation, the Institute aims to promote the perception of science as an extremely socially useful activity that enables the development and progress of the community and serves as a means of competitiveness on the global knowledge market. Today's economy, and consequently the labour market, cannot develop without the support of science and technology.