Created: 2026.05.08. 08:43
Széchenyi István University has strengthened its academic programmes through a European Union-funded development initiative, introducing new laboratories, modern digital equipment, and updated curricula. The results of the initiative are already tangible, while the implementation of certain elements is still ongoing.
The project entitled “Infrastructure and Skills Development for Practice-Oriented Education at Széchenyi István University” has entered its next phase. The previously launched methodological changes in education are now complemented by further achievements: modern equipment, renewed laboratories and updated curricula have become part of the institution’s everyday operation. Recently, representatives of three faculties – the Faculty of Audi Hungaria Automotive Engineering, the Faculty of Informatics and Electrical Engineering, and the Faculty of Architecture, Civil Engineering and Transport Engineering – presented these developments.
Dr János Szép, Dean of the Faculty of Architecture, Civil Engineering and Transport Engineering; Dr Péter Prukner, Vice-Dean for Industrial Relations at the Faculty of Informatics and Electrical Engineering; Dr László Lendvai, Vice-Dean for Internationalisation at the Audi Hungaria Faculty of Engineering; and Dr Ákos Botond Bertók, professional lead of the project, at the presentation of the programme’s results (Photo: András Adorján)
Dr Ákos Botond Bertók, professional lead of the project, explained that the programme simultaneously addresses programme content, teaching methodologies, and the equipment and laboratory infrastructure required to support them. “This forms part of a long-term development strategy: our aim is not only to achieve good results at a given moment, but also to ensure that these results are sustainable and supported by continuous progress,” he added.
As part of the initiative, a comprehensive review of degree programmes and curricula has been carried out, new educational approaches have been introduced, and preparations for international accreditation have begun in several programmes. The aim is to ensure the continuous planning, assessment and, where necessary, adjustment of education. The results are also clearly reflected in the figures: curricula have been renewed for 38 programmes, the content of 323 courses has been updated, and project-based learning has been introduced for 21 programmes. In addition, competency maps have been prepared for 25 programmes, supporting the monitoring of student progress and the targeted development of degree courses. More than four hundred lecturers have also participated in methodological educational programmes.
At the same time, significant infrastructural investments are being implemented: more than three thousand new digital devices are being introduced at the University, and the equipment of 29 laboratories is being upgraded, strengthening the conditions for practical education. At the Faculty of Audi Hungaria Automotive Engineering, developments have focused on measurement technology, additive manufacturing and robotics. “Our goal was to acquire equipment that allows students to follow the entire process from design to production. In this way, we can strengthen project-based education and provide students with new competencies,” said Dr László Lendvai, Vice-Dean for Internationalisation.
At the Faculty of Informatics and Electrical Engineering, the focus has been placed on modern measuring instruments and digital laboratories. “It was important for us to further strengthen our already practice-oriented education and provide students with up-to-date knowledge that also meets the expectations of industry,” said Dr Péter Prukner, Vice-Dean for Industrial Relations. He added that new measurement opportunities and remotely accessible laboratories are now also available.
At the Faculty of Architecture, Civil Engineering and Transport Engineering, progress has been achieved through digitalisation-related tools, such as laser scanners and geoinformatics solutions. “These tools are particularly important in the field of construction digitalisation, as they enable the precise surveying and digital modelling of existing structures, which can be utilised both in education and research,” said Dean Dr János Szép.
Széchenyi István University has received HUF 3.323 billion in funding for the implementation of its project entitled “Infrastructure and Skills Development for Practice-Oriented Education at Széchenyi István University” (Project ID: RRF-2.1.2-21-2022-00028), submitted under the call “Infrastructure and Skills Development for Practice-Oriented Higher Education Programmes” (Call ID: RRF-2.1.2-21). The funding covers 100 per cent of the project’s eligible total costs and is provided as a non-refundable grant. The project is being implemented within the framework of Hungary’s Recovery and Resilience Plan and financed from the national central budget allocation.
