Born in the heart of Slovakia in the Jubilee Year 2000, KU has established itself as a beacon of knowledge and faith, committed to a mission that goes beyond mere education to the integral development of the human person.

As it marks this significant milestone, a look at its history, achievements, and forward-looking vision reveals why this university is truly "one of a kind".

What are the 10 key highlights from its remarkable journey?

1. A Founding Vision Rooted in Faith and Reason

The Catholic University was established on a bold vision to create a college that would not only spread knowledge but also shape character. Its core mission is to unite the pursuit of knowledge with the light of faith. Flying on the "two wings, faith and science", the university is dedicated to a free search for the whole truth about the world.

This foundational philosophy shapes its unique identity as an institution that comes "from the heart of the Church, from the heart of Slovakia, from the heart of man."

2. More Than a Degree: Forming Character for a "Civilization of Love"

What truly sets KU apart is its emphasis on connecting intellectual activity with a spiritual dimension and science with service to humanity. The university's vision is not only to form brilliant minds but also to cultivate "generous hearts open to the service of one's neighbor."

KU calls upon its community to build a "civilization of love," countering modern cultures of money, ego, and manipulation. This commitment is about transforming knowledge into wisdom and preparing mature individuals ready to serve society.

3. Impressive Growth and Impact

From a small academic community, KU has grown into a major institution with four faculties, research centers, and a vibrant student body. The four faculties—Faculty of Education, Faculty of Arts and Letters, Faculty of Theology, and Faculty of Health Sciences—offer a comprehensive range of 114 accredited study programs across all levels of higher education. Over its 25 years, the university has educated almost 40,000 graduates, many of whom are now respected experts in their fields, working in major Slovak companies, mass media, schools, and hospitals.

4. A Unique "Family-Friendly" Atmosphere

KU prides itself on being a place "where names are known, not numbers". The university cultivates a unique family atmosphere, creating ideal conditions for personal and academic growth. Thanks to smaller study groups, students enjoy a closer connection with teachers, leading to an individual approach, better feedback, and a deeper understanding of the subject matter. This supportive and friendly environment helps form friendships that often last a lifetime.

5. A National Leader in Graduate Employability

One of KU's most remarkable achievements is its success in preparing graduates for the professional world. The university boasts the lowest graduate unemployment rate of any university in Slovakia. This top ranking demonstrates that studying at KU not only provides a high academic level but also effectively meets the labor market needs. This is achieved by involving experts from various fields in the teaching process, linking theoretical education with real-life exercises.

6. Top National Rankings and High Student Satisfaction

National rankings consistently affirm the quality of education at KU. The university is ranked among the best in Slovakia. In the state evaluation Hodnoť.to, KU achieved the second-highest ranking in Slovakia for student satisfaction and fourth for the readiness of its graduates for professional practice.

7. A Strong and Growing International Presence

KU has firmly established itself on the international academic stage as an active member of numerous associations, like the International Federation of Catholic Universities (IFCU), the European Federation of Catholic Universities (FUCE), and Magna Charta Universitatum.

KU is integrated within the Catholic Universities Partnership (CUP), which connects KU with other foreign Catholic universities under the guidance of the Nanovic Institute at the University of Notre Dame in the USA. The university is also a founding member of the U10+ Consortium of Slovak Universities and the 3SUN (Three Seas Universities Network).

8. State-of-the-Art Campus and Facilities

KU offers its students an inspiring and modern environment. A centerpiece of the campus is the university library, often named "the Beauty on the river Váh" and considered one of the most beautiful university libraries in Slovakia. Beyond the library, the university provides modern and comfortable student accommodation, which ranks among the best-equipped in the country. The campus itself is a dynamic hub featuring multifunctional sports grounds, a café, a chapel, and the active University Pastoral Centre.

9. A Commitment to Lifelong Learning and the Community

KU's mission extends to all generations. The university actively supports lifelong learning through its University of the Third Age, providing seniors with access to education and helping them overcome loneliness. For the youngest members of the community, the Kids University offers a unique opportunity for primary school pupils to experience university life through entertaining lectures and creative activities, helping to foster a love for learning from an early age.

10. An Ambitious Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, KU is poised for even greater achievements. Its strategic vision is to become an internationally recognized Catholic university of the 21st century. Key future projects include a major investment of almost €10 million for a new state-of-the-art "Skill Care" medical simulation center, set to be one of the most modern in Slovakia. The university also plans to expand its English-language programs, strengthen international partnerships, and become a leader in environmental responsibility, guided by the principles of the encyclical Laudato Si'.

For KU, twenty-five years is seen as "only the beginning".