How can Slovakia stop brain drain — and what can businesses, schools, and the public sector do to help young people see their future here?

This question was at the heart of IC Connect, held on 15 April 2026 in Bratislava, organised by the Impact Club platform in partnership with TPA Slovakia.

CELSI co-founder and Scientific Director Martin Kahanec delivered the keynote speech.

He was joined by Marcel Vysocky, Director General of the Higher Education Section at the Ministry of Education, Research, Development and Youth of the Slovak Republic, and Michaela Przygodzki from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The discussion was moderated by Milan Polešenský.

The event brought together representatives from business, academia, and the public sector in an open debate about the root causes of talent outflow and where collective action is needed most.

The discussion made clear that retaining talent requires a systemic approach - from engaging young people earlier, already at secondary schools, to stronger school-business ties, through to creating an environment that offers not just good salaries, but quality of life, fairness, and real prospects for the future.

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