Leader or Laggard? – A Debate on Higher Education—POWERED BY the Debate Academy

As the demands of the labor market evolve and the global scientific landscape shifts, can Hungarian universities rise to meet the challenge? Hungary's higher education system is in the midst of significant transformation — from new operational models and funding mechanisms to mounting international competition. This panel will explore critical issues shaping the future of higher education in Hungary: the changing dynamics of institutional autonomy, Hungary’s performance in global rankings, the role of research and development, and the challenges of talent cultivation and academic succession. With insights from our invited experts, we will examine whether Hungarian higher education is poised to become a driving force for innovation and societal advancement — or if deeper structural reforms are essential to ensure long-term competitiveness.