On 8–9 October 2026, the University of Pécs, Hungary, hosted the Western Balkans Forum on Higher Education and Innovation, an international event focusing on cooperation and innovation in higher education. István Csernicskó, Rector of Ferenc Rákóczi II Transcarpathian Hungarian University, attended the forum as well as the plenary meeting of the Hungarian Rectors’ Conference (HRC), held on 8 October in conjunction with the event.
The international forum focused on cooperation between higher education institutions, innovation, and the strengthening of international relations, with particular emphasis on the Western Balkans region. Key topics included European integration, university competitiveness, research collaboration, and student and academic staff mobility. The event provided opportunities for professional dialogue among representatives of the higher education sector, the establishment of new international institutional connections, and the further development of existing partnerships.
In conjunction with the international forum, the Hungarian Rectors’ Conference held its plenary meeting on 8 October at the South Transdanubian Regional Library and Knowledge Centre in Pécs. The agenda covered current issues in higher education, the development of a new operational model for Hungarian higher education, the enhancement of educational quality, the role of digital and methodological centres, as well as the well-being of higher education employees and measures to support student success.
For Rákóczi University, maintaining professional ties with higher education institutions in Hungary and internationally, exchanging experiences and best practices in higher education development, and actively participating in regional and international university cooperation are of particular importance.
