On Thursday, a tender of 340 billion forints worth will kick off for universities aimed at establishing scientific and innovation parks, as announced by the State Secretary responsible for innovation, higher education, vocational training, and adult education at the Ministry of Culture and Innovation, at the Székesfehérvár campus of the University of Óbuda.
Balázs Hankó stated that the John von Neumann Programme focuses on three main areas: healthy living, digitalization, and green transition. The tender has been launched, and all universities are encouraged to apply, he added.
The State Secretary pointed out that higher education institutions must submit their applications by 24 May, bolstered by declarations of cooperation from partners in industry. The aim, he articulated, is nothing short of linking strong industry, growing economy, expanding knowledge base, and excellent vocational training opportunities in cities like Székesfehérvár.
Hankó emphasized that the task of scientific and innovation parks is to propel Hungarian higher education and innovation to new heights, thereby positioning Hungary at the forefront of Europe’s innovation and university rankings. He noted that this process is underway, with twelve Hungarian universities now among the world’s elite, the top 5 per cent, while
in two years, there has been an increase of over six thousand students in higher education, three thousand of whom are enrolled in technical, natural sciences, and engineering informatics programmes.
Székesfehérvár mayor András Cser-Palkovics, who is also Chairman of the Rudolf Kalman Foundation for the University of Óbuda, stated that at least one university will definitely apply, specifically the University of Óbuda, with locations in Zsámbék, Kaposvár, and Székesfehérvár.
Regarding the scientific and innovation parks, he stressed that by linking science and industry, both education and the economic environment in specific regions are enhanced. He noted the importance of this synergy, as one of the first questions posed by newly arriving companies concerns skilled labour and the state of higher education, with the world of scientific and innovation parks poised to provide the answer to such challenges in the near future.
Rector Levente Kovács confirmed their intention to apply, as the University of Óbuda aims to be at the forefront of establishing these parks, which will further develop the institution.
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