The history of the development projects of St. Elizabeth University of Health and Social Work is inseparably linked to the vision and leadership of our founder, Prof. MUDr. Vladimír Krčméry, DrSc.
The university’s development projects began to take shape in the early years of the institution (2003), when Professor Krčméry, a specialist in tropical medicine, launched the first healthcare missions in developing countries. These projects were rooted in his professional focus on tropical medicine and infectious diseases. The first initiatives were established in Kenya, South Sudan, and Cambodia.
Over time, the university’s development activities expanded across multiple continents:
In 2002, Tropicteam was founded as a specialized tropical medicine team. It was led by Professor Vladimír Krčméry from 2002 to 2022 and is currently headed by Professor Juraj Benca.
The establishment of permanent international mission sites marked an important milestone in the university’s development work:
Students have been systematically involved in development projects through placements and volunteer missions in:
Professor Krčméry and the university have received numerous awards and distinctions for their contribution to development and humanitarian work:
The university’s development projects have always been guided by profound humanitarian and Christian values. Professor Krčméry often expressed this conviction:
"Why do I help poor people? Because I would like all these children to sit beside me on the Day of Judgment as my defenders, not my accusers."
Following the passing of Professor Krčméry in December 2022, the university continues his legacy under the leadership of the current Rector, Professor Ladislav Bučko. Development projects remain a fundamental part of the university’s identity and its mission to serve the poorest and most vulnerable communities around the world.
Professor Krčméry’s legacy lives on through hundreds of university graduates who continue to engage in development and humanitarian work worldwide. The university remains committed to pursuing his vision—to “enter places where others were afraid to go” and to seek solutions to the most complex challenges where help is needed most.
The history of our development projects is not merely a reflection on the past; it is a call to the future. Every new generation of students has the opportunity to contribute to this legacy and continue the work begun by Professor Krčméry—bringing hope and practical assistance to those who need it most.
