Hungarian universities that transitioned to a new governance model have achieved far greater success than anticipated, according to State Secretary for Higher Education at the Ministry of Culture and Innovation Veronika Varga-Bajusz. Speaking at the graduation and doctoral ceremony of the University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, she highlighted the sector’s recent accomplishments, including improved international rankings and increased accessibility.
In the past five years the number of Hungarian universities ranked among the world’s top 5 per cent has risen from 7 to 12. Three institutions are now in the top 2 per cent, and one, Semmelweis University has made it into the top 1 per cent. These achievements reflect the growing global recognition of Hungarian higher education. The sector has also seen a significant rise in student numbers, with over 328,000 currently enrolled in higher education—the highest figure in a decade. Applications are expected to continue increasing this year.
Universities are also aligning more closely with labour market demands, attracting students to fields crucial to the national economy. As a result, graduates typically find employment within 40 days and earn, on average, 1.5 times the salary of non-degree holders. Despite attempts to downplay these successes, the progress made by reformed universities in the past four years has far exceeded initial expectations. ‘These institutions are no longer stagnant waters; they are fountains of knowledge and innovation,’ Varga-Bajusz remarked. She emphasized that the government is committed to maintaining this momentum through initiatives such as the Pannonia and Hu-Rizont programmes and the continued provision of a high number of state-funded scholarships.
Highlighting the University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, Varga-Bajusz praised its prominent role in Hungary’s academic and scientific landscape. The institution currently educates more than 2,200 students, approximately half of whom are from abroad. The transition to the new higher education model has allowed the university to secure more stable and transparent funding, modernize its curricula, and expand research opportunities in collaboration with industry partners.
Minister of Agriculture István Nagy also addressed the graduates, emphasizing the vital role they will play in public administration, livestock healthcare, and epidemic prevention. He noted that their expertise would be invaluable not only in veterinary medicine but also in environmental conservation, food supply security, and efforts to reduce food waste. ‘A university degree from the University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest is more than just a qualification—it represents expertise, dedication, and a sense of mission. In today’s world, these qualities are more important than ever,’ Nagy stated.
University Rector Péter Sótonyi announced that 107 Hungarian-speaking students and 130 international students from nearly 70 countries were receiving their diplomas. Additionally, 45 students earned advanced hunting and wildlife management certifications, reinforcing the synergy between veterinary science and wildlife conservation. He also highlighted the completion of a significant investment project worth 7.3 billion forints at the end of 2024. This included the restoration of the university’s historic buildings and upgrades to classroom facilities to enhance experiential learning and in-person education.
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