11. 8. 2025

38th Congress of the Fetus as a Patient Society & 25th Novakov Days

The 38th Congress of the Fetus as a Patient Society was held in conjunction with the 25th Novakov Days at the Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre. The hybrid-format event brought together leading experts in fetal and perinatal medicine from around the globe, combining cutting-edge science with open discussions, hands-on workshops, and a deep commitment to patient-centred care.

A space for science, dialogue, and community

The congress focused on a wide range of topics: fetal and neonatal growth, prenatal and genetic diagnostics, perinatal infections, neonatal death, counselling, and ethical challenges around viability and intervention. Artificial intelligence in perinatology and the dilemmas of modern screening technologies were also key themes.

A significant part of the event was the workshop programme, which offered practical training in skills such as neonatal resuscitation, vacuum extraction, breech birth, episiotomy techniques, and the sensitive delivery of difficult news. A special session explored the use of ChatGPT and

AI tools in perinatal medicine.

CONGRESS OVERVIEW

Name: 38th Congress of the Fetus as a Patient Society & 25th Novakov Days

Client: MCA Scientific Events (technical organiser) & Fetus as a Patient Society (scientific lead)

Date: 14–16 May 2025

Participants: 100–150 delegates with strong international attendance

Venue & format:

The event followed an all-in-one layout within Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre. Delegates moved fluidly between the registration and catering area in the Marmorna Hall Foyer, featuring poster displays, up to 10 exhibitors, and informal networking corners and four breakout rooms (Urška 1–3 and Forum Hall). Urška 4 served as the main plenary hall. Delivered in a hybrid format, the congress enabled both in-person engagement and remote participation.

Event highlights:

The venue’s light-filled, spacious layout enabled smooth transitions between scientific sessions, practical workshops, and social events. Organisers praised the efficient on-site logistics, adaptable technical support, and the walkable city-centre location. Delegates particularly appreciated the vibrant poster sessions and informal networking opportunities.

Sustainability measures:

In addition to GR’s standard sustainability features, the event incorporated eco-conscious elements such as exhibitor booths built from repurposed wooden crates and sustainable transport solutions. Ljubljana’s electric Kavalir vehicles provided shuttle service between Hotel Lev and the venue for speakers and attendees.

Tailored venue support and hybrid execution

GR provided the infrastructure and flexibility required to deliver a hybrid event of this scale. From plenary halls and workshop rooms to exhibition areas and poster spaces, all venue capacities were used to their full potential. The congress benefited from GR’s advanced technical support for live streaming and remote access, while the venue’s open layout ensured smooth transitions between sessions.

A dignified and human-centred event

The congress opened with a ceremonial concert by young musicians from the Ljubljana Music Conservatory, followed by the presentation of the William Liley Award, honouring outstanding contributions in the field.

Evening social events encouraged informal networking and connection among participants. On the final day, the Mojca Novak Award and the Young Scientist Award were presented, highlighting the congress’s commitment to scientific excellence, mentorship, and the next generation of experts.

FEEDBACK FROM THE CLIENT

“A heartfelt thank-you to the entire team at GR for your excellent, efficient, and respectful support in organising our event the Fetus as a Patient Congress & Novakov Days. It was a complex challenge, but with your help, everything ran smoothly. Special thanks to the technical team for their professionalism and kindness, they were always there when we needed them. The Opening Ceremony was beautifully executed and left a lasting impression. We truly felt supported every step of the way.”

mag. Lili Steblovnik, dr. med., President, Slovenian Association for Perinatal Medicine