Hungarian universities have made advancements in the 2024 Times Higher Education World University Rankings. This improvement was highlighted by Veronika Varga-Bajusz, the State Secretary for Higher Education, Vocational and Adult Education, and Youth at the Ministry of Culture and Innovation, during a public television program.
University Rankings and Progress
Semmelweis University has retained its position within the 250–300 range, which is considered a significant achievement. The University of Pannonia and the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences have both advanced one category, while Óbuda University has improved by two categories and is now ranked between 600–800.
International Competitiveness
Varga-Bajusz underscored the importance of Hungarian universities achieving international competitiveness, stating that their progress has been occurring at a rate that exceeds the global average. Recent statistics indicate that more than 43,000 international students are currently studying at Hungarian institutions, reflecting the increasing appeal and recognition of these universities.
Funding and University Growth
The State Secretary noted that a change in the funding model has contributed to a turnaround in competitiveness, enabling institutions to receive performance-based funding. She reported that five years ago, only seven Hungarian universities were included in the rankings; this year, the number has increased to eleven, with an additional four institutions classified as ‘under watch’. Varga-Bajusz also mentioned that universities outside of Budapest are gaining popularity and enhancing their performance, particularly under the new academic structure, with Debrecen noted for hosting the highest number of foreign students.
Overview of the Rankings
The Times Higher Education World University Rankings, a widely recognized annual assessment, evaluates universities globally based on a range of criteria. The 2024 rankings cover 115 countries and more than 2,000 institutions, with the University of Oxford leading the list, accompanied by several institutions from the United States and the United Kingdom within the top ten.
Commitment to Quality Education
These improvements in the rankings reflect the ongoing commitment of Hungarian universities to enhance their educational quality and expand their international presence.
(Source: Hungarian Conservative)
