Slovenian society relies on knowledge, so our citizens are provided with education from their early childhood to university level and are encouraged to pursue lifelong education and learning. Our primary and secondary schools are free of charge and we maintain a system of short-cycle higher vocational study programmes and academic study programmes, provide students with meals, accommodation and work opportunities, and help them with various scholarship schemes. We are also committed to promoting the inclusion of adults in educational programmes and activities. We promote recreational and sporting activities and strive for the development of elite-level sport. We are aware of the importance of science and development in social progress and the creation of prosperity; therefore, our goal is to set up a modern research and innovation system that will increase knowledge about society, respond to its challenges, increase added value per employee and ensure quality jobs.