Centre for Education of Adults

The Past and Present of the Centre for Education of Adults at the Ferenc Rakoczi II Transcarpathian Hungarian University

The Centre for Education of Adults was established in 2004 by a decree of the Ferenc Rakoczi II Transcarpathian Hungarian University, as a subunit of the institution. Its main mission is to organize courses, projects, and programs for individuals of all ages that enhance competitiveness in the labor market and encourage staying in one’s homeland.

Adapting to the demands of a fast-paced world and the ever-accelerating technical, cultural, and economic development, the Centre for Education of Adults provides opportunities for those who do not wish to remain mere observers of these processes. In the 21st century, remaining competitive in the labor market under current economic conditions requires continuous learning and the regular expansion of existing knowledge. In other words, lifelong learning has become an essential condition for success.

The courses and training programs we offer provide numerous opportunities for all who consider it important to acquire knowledge that they can use in their daily lives and work. We live in a globalizing world where advancement, obtaining a degree, and securing a better job also require us to speak languages.

The very high number of applications for our courses can be attributed to several reasons: 1) the trainings hold a leading market position among the local Hungarian community; 2) various grant supports allow us to offer our courses for free or for a minimal tuition fee, making them accessible even to families in difficult financial situations.

Language Courses

Each academic year, we announce our language courses – English, German, Ukrainian, and Hungarian as a foreign language – at basic, intermediate, and advanced levels, with more than a hundred people participating annually on the University’s campus.

Data for 80-hour language courses, 2015–2024

On the first day of the course, applicants take a placement test, the results of which determine their level and placement in the appropriate study group. This ensures that participants with similar language proficiency learn together. The curriculum places strong emphasis on communication, listening comprehension, reading comprehension, and writing skills. A solid foundation in vocabulary and grammar enables students to read, understand, and effectively use texts from a variety of genres. With these skills, learners are able to receive, interpret, and convey new information confidently and accurately. These objectives form the basis of effective language teaching and learning. The core content of the curriculum includes essential grammar, vocabulary development, common expressions, and fundamental syntactic structures. Upon successful completion of each course, participants receive a bilingual (Ukrainian–Hungarian) certificate issued by the University, which is awarded during a ceremonial closing event.

Transcarpathia-wide Language Courses

With full coverage of Transcarpathia, the Hungarian as a foreign language course was first announced in March 2016. Course locations are generally chosen in settlements where the Hungarian population does not exceed 20 percent or is around 20 percent. In addition, priority is given to areas with significant tourist potential, as well as sites of historical and natural importance to the Hungarian community in Transcarpathia.

Following the success of the Hungarian language courses, we also considered it important to introduce Ukrainian language courses across Transcarpathia in settlements where there is a demonstrated demand.

Data for Transcarpathia-wide Ukrainian Courses (2018-2022)

ORIGÓ Ukrainian Language Exam Preparation Course

In 2024, in cooperation with the ELTE Origó Language Centre, the Centre for Education of Adults organized a 40-hour Origó Ukrainian language exam preparation course at B2 and C1 levels for the first time. The course supported participants in developing their communication skills and preparing for a successful language examination. Following the written examination, three participants qualified to receive a bilingual certificate.

ECL Language Examination Centre

Since 2016, the University has served as an external examination site for the International ECL Examination Centre of Pécs. Language examinations in English, Hungarian, and German at the A2, B1, B2, and C1 levels are offered five times per year. Until February 2024, a total of 240 candidates applied for examinations at various levels, of whom 205 successfully passed.

Summary of ECL Examinees by Year

Over the years, the Centre has organized numerous vocational and professional courses, including:

• Waiter training (2010)
• Secretary-Administrator training (2010)
• Radio Host and Announcer training (2011)
• Social Health Assistant training (2009 & 2012)
• Renewable Energy Consultant training (2011)
• Beekeeping Basics (2011)
• Tourism and Hospitality training (2013)
• Rag Rug Weaving training (2014)
• Rural Hospitality training (2015)
• Kitchen Assistant and Cook training (2016)
• Basic Plant Protection Knowledge (2017)
• Basic Computer Skills for Seniors (2017)
• Tour Guide training (2017)

“Tourism and Hospitality” training in cooperation with Niagara University (2023).

Summary of Other Courses, 2015–2021

Talent Development Programs

Collegium Talentum Talent Development Program

This program supports the education and professional development of the cross-border Hungarian intellectual community. Since 2016, it has been managed by the Sapientia Hungariae Foundation in Budapest. Its aim is to assist young Hungarians living beyond Hungary’s borders in their academic advancement and research activities. Successful applicants receive scholarships and may apply for reimbursement of conference participation and language examination fees. Since 2017, a total of 54 individuals from Transcarpathia have received scholarships.

Ilona Zrínyi Transcarpathian Hungarian College for Advanced Studies

This program is open to outstanding full-time students in their 3rd–6th year of studies. Its goal is to support the most talented Hungarian-speaking students enrolled in higher education institutions in Transcarpathia. Over 24 academic years, a total of 240 students have received scholarships, with 383 scholarships awarded in total, as some students earned the grant more than once.

Scientific Conferences

Conference of Young Hungarian Researchers in Transcarpathia (FKK)

Organized every autumn by the University and the “GENIUS” Charity Foundation, this conference provides an opportunity for Hungarian researchers from Transcarpathia under the age of 35 to present their research. Between 2013 and 2023, 285 presenters participated.

Scientific Discussion Afternoon

The aim is to broaden the knowledge of university students on global processes, problems, and challenges, with themes tied to significant historical or cultural events of the year. Between 2018 and 2024, 41 presenters participated.

Transcarpathian Scientific Student Conference (KTDK)

Held every May, this is the only conference in Transcarpathia from which participants can qualify for the biennial National Scientific Student Conference in Hungary. It encourages professional self-development and networking for students. Between 2011 and 2024, 415 presenters participated.