Obuda University Among Central Europe's Leading AI Universities
Óbuda University's technology transfer organization, Initium Venture Labs Ltd., hosted the fourth edition of its Initium Business Brunch on 25 June, this time focusing on the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence (AI). During the event, Prof. Dr. György Eigner, Dean of the John von Neumann Faculty of Informatics and the University's AI Commissioner, highlighted Óbuda University's leading position in the Central European region, emphasizing that "as a leading institution, we regard AI not merely as a technological tool, but as a framework for governance, decision-making, and organizational transformation."
He explained that, in addition to AI-related programmes offered to students and participants in lifelong learning courses, the University is also investing in the continuous development of its own staff. Recent initiatives include the development of an institutional AI chatbot and the launch of an AI Ambassador Programme, through which designated AI champions across all organizational units promote emerging applications, best practices, and AI-driven innovation. According to Prof. Eigner, 2026 will mark the University's "Agent Leap"—a strategic transition from conventional chatbots to semi-autonomous AI agents capable of supporting complex workflows, a development expected to reshape both administrative processes and educational content.
"Providers and deployers must clearly disclose when image, audio, or video content constitutes a deepfake, as well as when AI-generated or AI-manipulated text concerning matters of public interest is published. Such disclosures must be clear and easily distinguishable," explained Dr. Viktor Vajda, Secretary General of the Hungarian Artificial Intelligence Coalition. His presentation focused on how regulatory compliance can become a competitive advantage rather than merely a legal obligation. He emphasized that Hungary requires an AI governance framework capable of fostering trust, competitiveness, and public acceptance. While the AI Act establishes an important legal foundation, it does not provide detailed guidance for every practical scenario. To address this gap, the Hungarian AI Council has prepared a Hungarian AI Code of Ethics and Society, offering practical recommendations for the responsible deployment of artificial intelligence.
Representatives of the business sector also shared their perspectives on AI adoption. According to Botond Varga, Director of AI and Innovation at Serco Informatikai Ltd., Hungary ranks among the world's top 20 countries in AI affinity according to the Microsoft Index. Nevertheless, AI initiatives continue to experience failure rates of approximately 70–80% in large enterprises and as high as 95–97% among small and medium-sized enterprises.
He attributed these outcomes to what he described as "innovation theatre": organizations invest in cutting-edge technologies while neglecting the foundations necessary for successful implementation. Unstructured internal data, the absence of a clear AI strategy, limited involvement of human resources, an oversupply of self-proclaimed AI experts, and a shortage of practical experience all contribute to unsuccessful projects. At the same time, the exponential pace of technological development makes it increasingly challenging for organizations to keep up with innovation.
"Artificial intelligence is the new electricity," quoted Gyula Kovács, Managing Director of Neuron Solutions, referencing the well-known observation by Andrew Ng. He argued that AI itself will not directly replace human workers; rather, companies that successfully integrate and develop AI technologies will gain a decisive competitive advantage over those that fail to do so.
The programme concluded with a roundtable discussion moderated by Prof. Dr. Tamás Haidegger, CEO of Initium Venture Labs, during which invited experts shared their perspectives on how artificial intelligence is likely to transform higher education, business, and society over the coming decade.
Prof. Dr. György Eigner
