The Hungarian Rectors’ Conference is the defining professional and advocacy organization of Hungarian higher education. Its activities simultaneously establish the framework for inter-institutional cooperation, the exchange of experience, and collaborative thinking, while representing the interests of Hungarian higher education as a whole. This commitment does not end at the national borders: the Conference considers it a crucial mission to support Hungarian higher education institutions located beyond the borders and to strengthen the cohesion of the Hungarian higher education area.
Ferenc Rakoczi II Transcarpathian Hungarian University has directly experienced the significance of this in recent years. Through its professional cooperation, expertise, and moral stance, the Hungarian Rectors’ Conference has consistently supported the work of our institution, particularly during periods when the University of Rakoczi had to ensure the continuity of its operations amidst extraordinary circumstances.
This assistance became especially invaluable following the full-scale escalation of the Russian-Ukrainian war. The Hungarian Rectors’ Conference organized a fundraising campaign to support the students and faculty of our institution. This initiative contributed to securing the conditions for online education, thereby enabling our students to continue their studies and our instructors to perform their duties even under these drastically altered circumstances.
All of this has also demonstrated to us that cooperation among higher education institutions means far more than a mere system of professional relationships. Its true value becomes apparent when solidarity takes the form of concrete assistance. The support from the Hungarian Rectors’ Conference has reassured our University that Transcarpathian Hungarian higher education does not stand alone, and that the wider Hungarian higher education community watches over its work with attentiveness and a profound sense of responsibility.
In recognition of its consistent professional support, moral stance, and the responsibility demonstrated toward Transcarpathian Hungarian higher education, the Senate of Ferenc Rakoczi II Transcarpathian Hungarian University awards the 2026 Rákóczi Prize to the Hungarian Rectors’ Conference.
We extend our respectful and heartfelt congratulations on this honor to all members of the Hungarian Rectors’ Conference, with special regard to President Béla Merkely and Honorary President László Borhy. We thank you for all the attention, professional support, and assistance you have provided to our University and to the cause of Transcarpathian Hungarian higher education in recent years.
