The Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic has been observing the 20th anniversary of its origin. This month we feature an interview with the first president of the ASCR. Professor Rudolf Zahradnik, who merited attained international acclaim by restoring the strength and integrity of this scientific institution. Professor Zahradnik also provided the cntical impetus to not only democratize the Czech Academy but to reintegrate it within the global scientific community.
This year we commemorate the 1150th anniversary of the arrival of Saints Cyril and Methodius to Great Moravia. Various projects have been prepared for this international event. On the national level is a historically oriented exhibition project titled, Cyril and Methodius — their time, life and work. This presents the cultural and social phenomenon of the Cyrillo-Methodian mission stressing its crucial importance for the establishment of the Czech national community. The exhibition presents historical and archaeological items collected during research lasting more than 50 years by the Moravian Museum and partner organizations and connected to the history of Great Moravia before, during and after the apostles' mission. (The saints' day is observed in the Czech Republic and Slovakia July 5.) and Petra Melichar.
Denmark began its six-month presidency of the EU council on January 1, 2012. The Danish term commences at a critical time for the Euro zone and Denmark has pledged that unity is among its central goals. Another aim is to make green issues a priority, including a fresh look at renewable energies. The Danish Presidency will work to push forward negotiations on the next generation of programmes in education, research and innovation. It believes the interconnection between the three areas must be enhanced. In this regard, institutions of higher education play a vital role as suppliers of research, education of highly qualified labour force and transfer of new knowledge to society. Similarly, strengthening vocational education and training programmes must contribute to promoting a “knowledge-based society”. The Danish Presidency program is available on http://eu2012.dk/en. and Adéla Vožechová.