On 20 March, the Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) “THE EU SECURE: Aspects of European Security”, held at the Ludovika University of Public Service (LUPS), concluded with a formal closing ceremony. The programme brought together students and lecturers from several European and non-European partner institutions.
At the closing event held on the Ludovika Campus, participants received certificates acknowledging their successful completion of the programme, recognizing their work during both the online and in-person training phases. The two-week training, which combined virtual elements with an on-site week in Budapest, explored numerous security-related issues, addressing topics ranging from water security to artificial intelligence.
In her closing remarks, Anna Molnár, Head of the Department of International Security Studies at LUPS, emphasized that participants from many different countries examined European security issues from diverse perspectives, thereby “facilitating information-sharing and relationship-building.” The programme created an opportunity for the extensive exchange of experiences and viewpoints. She added that the Russo–Ukrainian war further underscores the importance of security and defence policy cooperation.
The event was concluded by Lieutenant Colonel Ferenc Petruska, the university’s Deputy Dean for International Affairs, who stated that beyond knowledge transfer, the programme also aimed to build “a resilient and forward-looking professional community.” The training began with online cooperation and continued with the in-person week in Budapest, during which participants deepened their knowledge through lectures, seminars and simulation exercises. As he noted, the students “went beyond the theoretical modules and directly experienced the complexity of international cooperation.”
Throughout the programme, participants examined current challenges such as cybersecurity, migration, climate change and hybrid threats. “In a world where security is no longer solely about borders, the work carried out here is of exceptional importance,” emphasized Ferenc Petruska, also highlighting the contributions of the Greek, Italian, Portuguese, Romanian, Georgian and Hungarian partners.
At the closing ceremony, participants received their certificates confirming the completion of 3 ECTS credits. The personal tone of the event was enhanced by the fact that several participants expressed their gratitude with gifts. The Georgian delegation, for example, surprised the university’s representatives with local specialties, including Georgian wine.
The EU SECURE programme is one of the innovative educational formats within Erasmus+, combining virtual learning with short, intensive international mobility. During the training, participants acquire theoretical knowledge and develop analytical and cooperative skills through joint assignments and interactive exercises. According to the organizers, such programmes contribute to strengthening European values and preparing future professionals for an increasingly complex security environment. Ferenc Petruska expressed his particular hope that “the spirit of Ludovika and the professional connections formed here will accompany” participants throughout their careers.
Text: Orsolya Jancsó
Photos: Dénes Szilágyi