Óbuda University at the Times Higher Education Europe Universities Summit
Following the success of last year's Times Higher Education (THE) Europe Universities Summit in Budapest, which was co-hosted by Óbuda University and Semmelweis University, Óbuda University participated as an Innovation Partner in this year's THE Europe Summit. ÓU is a leading technical university in the Central European region, having secured the top position among technical universities in THE’s 'research quality' and 'research environment' categories for the fourth consecutive year, and it remains one of the most dynamically developing universities in Europe. This prestigious invitation serves as recognition of these achievements. In the national rankings, Óbuda University currently holds the 2nd position among Hungarian universities.
Óbuda University was represented by Rector Prof. Dr. Levente Kovács, who delivered a presentation titled 'The Óbuda University Model of the Entrepreneurial University", highlighting the institution's innovation ecosystem and its entrepreneurial-driven operating model. In his lecture, he emphasized that modern universities must simultaneously strengthen their research performance and international visibility, while also developing an entrepreneurial mindset capable of transforming innovative ideas into social and market value.
The presentation showcased the ÓU innovation ecosystem, supported by Obuda Venture Capital, which bridges the gap between academic research and industrial and market applications both in Hungary and internationally. Rector Levente Kovács highlighted the importance of involving students in the innovation process at an early stage and addressed how innovation performance can be maintained during a period marked by financial and institutional challenges.
Íme az utolsó szakasz szakmai angol fordítása:
Following the presentation, Rector Prof. Dr. Levente Kovács participated in a panel discussion regarding the future of graduate employability, alongside professors from the Université de Toulouse (France), the State Agency for Science and Higher Education (Azerbaijan), and Bocconi University (Italy). During the discussion, participants examined how universities can prepare students for a rapidly changing labor market environment. In this context, he emphasized the importance of defining a clear strategic direction by university leadership that takes into account the needs of both students and employers. Addressing concerns that the widespread use of Artificial Intelligence among students has diminished employer confidence in the value of degrees, Prof. Dr. Levente Kovács highlighted the responsibility of universities to foster critical thinking and competitive skills. He noted that this can be achieved through flexible, innovative pedagogical solutions and the application of a lifelong learning mindset.
In addition, Óbuda University was present at the event with an exhibition stand, which provided an opportunity to strengthen international partnerships, showcase the university's educational and research achievements, and further enhance its international visibility within the European Higher Education Area.
