The ceremony was organized on 9th of February to welcome the 50 foreign guest students, who arrived in the framework of Erasmus+ mobility programme to spend a few month at Ludovika – National University of Public Service.
First the Vice Rector for International Affairs welcomed the students. According to Boglárka Koller, "Erasmus is one of the most important benefits of European integration." She added that the students came to the University primarily to learn, where they will find many opportunities and will not be bored. She encouraged them to learn some Hungarian words, try Hungarian food, see the sights of Hungary and have fun.
"You should be happy to be here," stressed the Vice Dean for International Affairs at the Faculty of Public Governance and International Studies. Péter Krisztián Zachar stressed that the Faculty is committed to training new recruits for the civil service. He said that what makes the courses special is their ability to adapt to current challenges. One example is the doctoral programme, which is unique in the field of public administration analysis.
Baja is the capital of water science - those who come there will not only be involved in laboratory analyses, but will also learn to see and feel the power of water. Imre Miklós Jánosi, Head of the Department of Water and Environmental Policy at the Faculty of Water Sciences, gave an overview of the faculty’s organisation and the professional opportunities offered by the courses, accompanied by a short film.
"The way we see Erasmus+: we just love it!" - said the Vice Dean for International Affairs of the Faculty of Military Science and Officer Training. Prof. Dr. (Col.) Klára Siposné Kecskeméthy emphasized that the diversity of the faculty is also strengthened by the international students, as they can meet foreign researchers not only in the bachelor and master programmes, but also in the doctoral programmes. In addition, Hungarian students can also participate in several international internships, which, in addition to professional development, can also broaden their network of contacts.
Colonel Bence Mészáros presented the specificities of the Faculty of Law Enforcement. "We have a monopoly in this field", stressed the Vice Dean for International Affairs, who also pointed out that they do not train cadets in charge of enforcement, but police officers with a good understanding of the law and leadership skills from both the bachelor and master courses.
As part of the International Welcome Day, the students also had the opportunity to meet the head of the student representation of the UPS. Bendegúz Dibusz, President of the Student Union, stressed that when foreign students arrive at Ludovika, they have many questions that they can ask the student organisations, and the President of the Erasmus Student Network (ESN) assured the newcomers of the organisation's support. "You will be studying at one of the most professional universities in the country", said Blanka Korsós, who suggested that although Budapest could be talked about all day, they should go and explore the city and come back with unforgettable experiences.