The Faculty of Public Governance and International Studies (FPGIS) of the Ludovika University of Public Service (LUPS) held its traditional Orientation Day on September 8 at LUPS. This semester is special, as for the first time a record number of international students have chosen LUPS as their place of study. The aim of the event was to help international and Erasmus students get acquainted with the university’s operation, the faculty’s departments, the study and administrative processes, as well as the opportunities offered by community life.
On behalf of the faculty, Péter Krisztián Zachar, Vice-Dean for International Affairs and Head of the Department of International Relations and Diplomacy, expressed his joy in his welcome speech: “We are delighted that so many of you have chosen Hungary and Budapest for your international studies. We hope you will have an unforgettable time in this beautiful city!” – he added.
The Vice-Dean explained that LUPS has a rich historical background dating back to the reform era of the 19th century, when the Ludovika Academy was founded as a higher education institution specializing in military training. Today, the university operates with five faculties, the youngest of which is the Teacher Training Faculty named after István Nemeskürty. “We are proud that FPGIS is the largest faculty of the university and hosts the highest number of international students, since understanding global public administration is essential in today’s interconnected world,” emphasized Péter Krisztián Zachar.
He also highlighted that the university has extensive international relations, with Erasmus agreements and other collaborations with numerous countries both in Europe and beyond, such as China and the United States. He added that LUPS’s goal is to become a joint hub of public service education, modern teaching methods, and international academic excellence. He stressed that the faculty’s English-language training portfolio is comprehensive, ranging from undergraduate programs to doctoral schools, with special emphasis on the unique international master’s program in cybersecurity in Central Europe, focusing on issues of cybercrime and cyber warfare.
Zachar encouraged students to explore Budapest, take advantage of the campus’s sports facilities, and participate in university events such as the Ambassador’s Forum, where renowned diplomats give lectures. He also drew attention to the LUPS library, which supports research with unique international databases. “Be ambassadors of your own country, share your culture with us, and take something special back home from Budapest!” – he highlighted in his closing remarks.
Representatives of several departments also introduced themselves at the event to give students a comprehensive picture of the courses offered and the departments’ activities. Zsuzsanna Kondor, senior lecturer of the Department of Public Finance, presented the department’s courses covering a wide range of public finance topics, including EU funding programs and budgetary planning systems. She explained that her own English-language course on strategic and project management is particularly popular, as it playfully encourages students to develop a project integrating international students. “Our goal is to create an interactive environment where both students and I enjoy working together, sometimes even incorporating songs or novels into learning,” said Zsuzsanna Kondor.
Miklós Szirbik, assistant professor of the Department of European Public and Private Law, spoke about the importance of European legal studies. He emphasized that European and international law is an exciting field, examining the EU’s decision-making processes and legal competences. The department combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, particularly in legal disputes, which often create dramatic and exciting situations. As an example, he mentioned the “Dassonville formula” court ruling, which leaves a lasting impression on students.
József Sáfrán, assistant professor of the Lőrincz Lajos Department of Administrative Law, presented the department’s rigorous but essential courses, such as Introduction to Public Law and Comparative Public Law, for which he is the coordinator. The department focuses on issues of governmental and local administration, as well as policing and military law, and also offers the opportunity to write theses in English.
András Varga, assistant professor of the Department of European Studies, introduced courses dealing with the EU’s identity, integration theories, and decision-making processes, highlighting the more informal and friendly teaching environment.
In addition to the academic offer, administrative processes were also discussed. Zsombor Artner, Erasmus student coordinator, outlined the support provided for international students and the details of the program. Szilvia Almási and Gergő Drahota from the Registrar’s Office gave a presentation to help students understand enrollment and administrative processes. Boglárka Együd, international affairs representative of the Faculty Student Union (FSU), introduced the FSU’s activities and explained how it supports students’ community life. Coordinators encouraged students to remain open-minded and enjoy their stay in Hungary.
Text: Zsófia Sallai
Photo: András Szabó