Press releases
The State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation SERI regularly publishes media information about its activities, projects, and programs.
State Secretary Hirayama attends Informal EU Ministerial Meeting on Competition in Research and Innovation
On 16 and 17 July, Martina Hirayama, State Secretary for Education, Research and Innovation, attended the informal meeting of EU research ministers in Copenhagen (Denmark). The policy discussions focused on promoting key technologies in Europe and the design of the next EU Framework Programme for Research and Innovation from 2028. State Secretary Hirayama also took the opportunity to hold bilateral talks with counterparts from various countries.
Secretary of State Martina Hirayama on science and economic mission to Australia and New Zealand
On behalf of Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin, Head of the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER), Martina Hirayama, State Secretary for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI) will travel to Sydney and Melbourne (Australia) and Auckland (New Zealand) from 30 June to 8 July. The aim of the trip is to reinforce and broaden bilateral ties in the domains of education, research, innovation and economic affairs. She will be accompanied by a high-ranking delegation from the scientific and business community.
Secretary of State Martina Hirayama on scientific mission to South Korea
From 22 to 25 June, State Secretary for Education, Research and Innovation Martina Hirayama led a scientific delegation to Seoul. The aim of the trip was to strengthen Switzerland's cooperation with South Korea in research and innovation. The agenda included a meeting with Chang Yune Lee, Vice Minister for Science and ICT, as well as visits to research institutions, universities, companies and start-ups. The thematic focus was on quantum science, artificial intelligence (AI), high-performance computing and life sciences. Ms Hirayama was accompanied on her trip to South Korea by a high-ranking Swiss science delegation.
Horizon package: Federal Council releases further funds for direct funding for 2021–2024
Due to Switzerland's non-association to the Horizon package (Horizon Europe, Euratom programme, Digital Europe Programme, ITER), the Federal Council adopted a series of transitional measures in the period 2021–2024. A large number of project proposals and corresponding requests are expected for this direct funding of researchers and innovators in Switzerland. On 20 June 2025, the Federal Council decided to allocate an additional CHF 75 million for this purpose, subject to budgetary approval by the Swiss Parliament. These additional funds do not exceed the overall budget of CHF 5.4 billion approved by parliament for the Horizon package.
Swiss–EU package: Federal Council approves agreements and opens consultation process
At its meeting on 13 June 2025, the Federal Council approved the agreements in the new package to stabilise and develop Switzerland's bilateral approach with the EU and opened the domestic consultation process. After Switzerland brought the negotiations with the EU to a successful close in December 2024, the Federal Council finalised the implementing legislation and accompanying measures. Previously unresolved issues concerning wage protection, immigration, electricity and the type of referendum to be held have since been settled and presented to the public over the last five months. The consultation process will last until 31 October 2025. With this package, the Federal Council is aiming for customised sectoral participation in the EU single market as well as cooperation in selected areas. Given the current global unrest, maintaining good relations with neighbouring countries is key.
Celebration event for the 50 years of ESA in Lausanne
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the signing of the convention that established the European Space Agency (ESA). Several member states are holding events to mark the occasion. On 26 May, Switzerland held an event in Lausanne in collaboration with ESA, dedicated to the themes of ‘inspiration, science and exploration’.
Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin on a working visit to Poland
Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin will visit Poland on 14 and 15 May. During his visit he will sign a memorandum of understanding to strengthen cooperation in education, research and innovation (ERI). Bilateral ministerial meetings are also planned, focusing on ERI and business. The programme will conclude with a visit to the renowned Impact'25 innovation fair.
State Secretary Martina Hirayama on a science mission in the Gulf States
From 12 to 16 May, Martina Hirayama, State Secretary for Education, Research and Innovation, will travel to Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates on a science mission. This trip is intended primarily to strengthen existing partnerships and explore opportunities for further collaboration in research and innovation.
Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin to visit Bulgaria
Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin will travel to Sofia on 7 May for a one-day visit. His programme includes meetings with Bulgaria’s President Rumen Radev and Prime Minister Rosen Jeliazkov, as well as a visit to the renowned Institute for Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence and Technology (INSAIT).