Slovak Education Minister Tomáš Drucker stated that Slovak science has improved by 40 percent, citing the results of the Periodical Evaluation of Research, Development, Artistic and Further Creative Activities (VER 2026). This claim, presented on Monday, compares the latest evaluation period (2020-2023) with the previous one (2014-2019) assessed in VER 2022. However, researchers are challenging this assertion, labeling it a misinterpretation of the data. The core of the dispute lies in changes to the evaluation criteria implemented by the Ministry since the previous assessment. Critics argue the improved results are not due to genuine scientific advancement, but rather a consequence of altered evaluation rules. The Ministry has not yet responded to the specific criticisms regarding the methodology shift. This discrepancy raises questions about the accuracy and transparency of the reported improvements in Slovak science.