A cultural and academic voyage of discovery

The Winter University, jointly organised by the International Centre of the University of Pécs (PTE) and the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, has been launched again this year, offering participants a special opportunity to immerse themselves in European and Hungarian culture. Twenty students from the University of Michigan - Shanghai Jiao Tong University Joint Institute will be guests of the programme for three weeks to explore the cultural heritage of Pécs and Hungary.

The academic part of the Winter University is provided by the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences of PTE, while the overall organisation of the programme is coordinated by the University's International Centre. During the three-week event, students can attend lectures and seminars in various venues, including the city's historic buildings. The programme aims to familiarise participants with Hungarian and European thought, intellectual roots and modern cultural life.

"We are very happy that you are here! Pécs truly reflects European culture. Its history and intellectual heritage provide a deep basis for understanding European thinking" - said Dr. Gyöngyi Pozsgai, Head of the Study Abroad and Summer University Office. 

Dr Adrienne Gálosi, Associate Professor of the Department of Aesthetics and Cultural Studies at the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences and academic director of the programme, said in her opening speech,

"The programme will not only provide learning opportunities, but also a deeper understanding of the European way of thinking, which is the basis for the formation of intellectual life."

The Winter University courses are not only about intellectual development, but also about cultural and social experiences. Participants can taste the flavours of Hungarian cuisine, take part in city tours and get to know the local community. The organisers have also planned a number of social events, such as team-building evenings and a trip to Budapest.

As one student put it, "I'm really looking forward to learning about Hungarian culture and history, and I feel that this programme is the perfect opportunity to do so."

At the request of the Chinese students, the programme will also include a celebration of Chinese New Year, or Lunar New Year. Participants will welcome the New Year together on 28 or 29 January, which is one of the most important holidays of the year in Chinese culture.

The Winter University programme is a great example of how the University of Pécs can become a meeting point for cultures and ways of thinking. Participants will return home not only with new knowledge but also with life-changing experiences, strengthening the University's international relations.