Slovakia’s Ministry of Education is promoting a narrative of thriving scientific output, but critics allege the assessment of research performance is heavily skewed. The system reportedly favors a “Stakhanovist” approach – prioritizing a small number of high-achieving researchers to present a positive overall picture. This method allegedly allows these select individuals to carry the weight of performance metrics for entire research institutions. Concerns are raised that this practice obscures the reality of research conditions and achievements at other departments within those institutions. The focus on a few “star” researchers may not accurately reflect the broader state of scientific development in Slovakia. This approach raises questions about the equitable distribution of research funding and the true impact of national science policies.