The World Comes to Pécs

On July 6, 2026, the University of Pécs’s 10th annual Pécs Summer School programme kicked off with festive music performed by the PTE Brass Band, organised by the Study Abroad and Summer Scool Office of the University of Pécs International Centre. This year, approximately 200 international students from 40 countries and 60 universities have arrived in the historic university city to expand their knowledge on topics ranging from global challenges and human rights to sustainability, all within a dynamic, intercultural environment.

For more pictures of the event: click here!

Following the opening remarks by Dr. Gyöngyi Pozsgai, Head of the Study Abroad and Summer University Office, in his opening speech, Dr. István Tarrósy, Director of the International Centre, highlighted the strategic importance of short-cycle programmes. They are working on establishing a "summer trimester" framework, which utilises the unique, vibrant summer atmosphere of Pécs to further strengthen the institution's international presence and appeal.

Although PTE is hosting a total of nine summer universities in July alone this year, five major programmes were officially launched at today's ceremony. The remaining summer university programmes will commence continuously over the coming days and weeks. Participants are arriving in Pécs from the United States (Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, East Tennessee State University, University of Wisconsin-Stout, and MSU Denver) and the United Kingdom, right through to Colombia, Mexico, Jordan, and Australia, as well as from numerous European countries, including Germany, Norway, and Italy.

Representing the various faculties, the academic directors outlined the interdisciplinary challenges that await the students. Dr Ágoston Mohai, Dean of the Faculty of Law, emphasised the topicality of the International Human Rights programme. He pointed out that rapid technological advancement, the rise of artificial intelligence, environmental crises, and armed conflicts pose unprecedented challenges to global human rights.

Representing the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Viktória Borda drew attention to the fact that sustainability is much more than merely an environmental issue. During the two-week Sustainability course, participants will also collaborate with local civil society organisations.

Welcoming the participants of the European Studies programme, Dr Péter Szegedi reminded them that learning does not end at the classroom walls. He encouraged the students to share their traditions with one another and broaden their horizons whilst exploring the city.

A successful summer school cannot operate without a stable support network. At the event, special recognition was given to the main organisers of the programmes, as well as the dedicated team of 22 student mentors from PTE, who assist the international guests with their daily lives during their stay. At the ceremony, special recognition was given to the staff members who have been working tirelessly for months to bring these programmes to fruition, including Noémi Zsitvai and Blanka Szabó. 

Article: Hanna Leemans
Photos: Szabolcs Csortos