One of the key strategic objectives of Ludovika – University of Public Service (LUPS) is internationalisation, with a strong focus on increasing the number of international students and enhancing the University’s global visibility. Participation in international higher education fairs provides an effective platform to engage directly with prospective students and institutional partners.
As part of the Study in Hungary initiative coordinated by the Tempus Public Foundation, representatives of LUPS took part in the LATAM (Latin America Education Fair Series) held in Brazil (São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro) and Colombia (Bogotá). The aim of the programme was to showcase Hungarian higher education, promote the Stipendium Hungaricum and Diaspora scholarship programmes, and explore new opportunities for cooperation in the Latin American region.
During the fairs, visitors could register through a modern digital system, enabling immediate registration, and follow-up communication. At the LUPS booth, more than 100 prospective students registered in São Paulo and in Bogotá. The most popular fields of interest included International Studies, Cybersecurity, as well as Civil and Environmental Engineering programmes.
Beyond student recruitment, the event series also offered valuable opportunities for professional networking. LUPS representatives presented the University at several occasions, including an introduction event at the Hungarian House in São Paulo and a networking reception hosted by the Embassy of Hungary in Bogotá, attended by representatives of 32 Colombian higher education institutions. These meetings opened the door to potential future collaborations, including Erasmus+ partnerships and bilateral agreements.
The experience gained during the LATAM fairs confirmed that Latin America holds significant potential for Hungarian higher education. The events contributed to strengthening the international visibility of LUPS, expanding institutional relations, and enhancing awareness of Hungarian scholarship opportunities.
Building on the results of the fairs, the University plans targeted follow-up communication with registered students and partners, along with sharing best practices within its International Office. The knowledge and connections gained through the LATAM series will support LUPS in representing itself even more effectively in the Latin American higher education landscape, thereby reinforcing Hungary’s presence in international academia.
Text and Photo: International Office, International Mobility Department