At the 34th Tusványos Festival in Tusnádfürdő, a roundtable discussion introduced the cooperation agreement between the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE) and the Sapientia Hungarian University of Transylvania. The event featured Minister of Culture and Innovation Balázs Hankó, Minister of Agriculture István Nagy, MATE Rector Csaba Gyuricza, and Sapientia Rector Márton Tonk, who discussed the partnership’s goals and the role of higher education in regional development.
Minister István Nagy emphasized that modern challenges require modern solutions, which universities and research institutions can provide through the transfer of updated professional knowledge. MATE Rector Csaba Gyuricza highlighted that MATE is not only an academic institution but also a major economic player, managing 11,000 hectares of land across 15 counties and leading several agricultural sectors. He outlined plans to integrate artificial intelligence with agriculture, launch dual training programs, and introduce equestrian education in Székely Land.
Rector Márton Tonk noted that while Sapientia cannot single-handedly transform macroeconomic and social processes, it plays a crucial role in addressing them. Currently, 20% of Sapientia’s students are enrolled in agricultural programs, underscoring the institution’s commitment to the field.
Minister Balázs Hankó stressed the importance of combining tradition with innovation in higher education. The collaboration aims to position MATE among Europe’s top 100 agricultural universities and place Sapientia in Hungary’s top 10. The signed agreement is expected to significantly boost competitiveness, as well as strengthen innovation, research, education, and international cooperation.
Source: Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences
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