Overview of the Diplomatic Visit
On 17 October 2025, the Ambassador of the Republic of Kosovo to Hungary, Delfin Pllana, paid a historic visit to the University of Debrecen. The event was organised in collaboration with Rector Zoltán Szilvássy and Director of Coordination and Strategy Okszána Kiszil, and served as a platform to deepen educational and research ties between the two nations. The ambassador’s presence highlighted the university’s commitment to fostering international partnerships and supporting Kosovar students pursuing higher education in Hungary.
Academic Dialogue: From PhD Programs to Functional Food Innovation
During a comprehensive meeting in the Main Building, Rector Szilvássy introduced the Ambassador to the University’s extensive network of industrial partners. He outlined recent breakthroughs in functional foods—a field where Debrecen has been a pioneer—emphasising research that aligns with global nutrition and health trends. The discussion also covered joint PhD initiatives and the potential expansion of medicine programs to include Kosovar scholars.
Ambassador Pllana, familiar with the University of Pristina and the University of Business and Technology (UBT), proposed direct institutional cooperation. He suggested formal agreements for joint doctoral studies, shared faculty exchanges, and collaborative research projects that could leverage both universities’ strengths. The exchange of expertise, he argued, would elevate the academic standing of both institutions while opening new pathways for students.
Expanding Mobility and Student Support
A key element of the conversation focused on mobility programmes. Both parties explored options for launching structured student and researcher exchanges. Currently, 25 Kosovar students are enrolled at Debrecen, primarily through the Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship programme. These students benefit from a comprehensive support system that includes language courses, cultural integration workshops, and academic tutoring.
By formalising mobility agreements, the University aims to expand the number of Kosovar students and scholars on its campuses, fostering cross‑cultural understanding and academic diversity. This initiative aligns with EU goals of promoting mobility among higher‑education institutions and facilitating a deeper sense of European solidarity.
Student Engagement: Direct Interaction with Prospective Learners
The ambassador’s visit extended beyond administrative talks. He met with a group of Kosovar undergraduate students currently studying at the university. These interactions provided invaluable insights into the students’ experiences, expectations, and aspirations. Feedback from these students will shape future educational frameworks that better address the needs of international learners.
Engagement with students is a hallmark of Debrecen’s outreach strategy. The university maintains dedicated support services that assist international students with visa applications, accommodation, and academic progress. The close cooperation demonstrated during the ambassador’s visit underscores the university’s role as a welcoming environment for talent from around the world.
What This Means for Prospective International Students
For students considering studies abroad, the Ambassador’s visit reaffirms that Debrecen provides robust academic programmes, strong research opportunities, and a welcoming campus culture. The Strengthened ties with institutions in Kosovo mean that potential applicants can rely on a transparent pathway through scholarship programmes and dual‑degree options.
The university’s ongoing efforts to create multicultural learning spaces, coupled with its partnership network, ensure that students receive a multifaceted education. The combination of strong research output—particularly in functional foods—and the scholarship avenues like Stipendium Hungaricum make Debrecen an attractive destination for ambitious students.
Support Services for International Students
The university’s International Office offers:
- Pre‑arrival orientation and language preparation
- Accredited academic counselling and thesis supervision
- Legal support for visa and residence permits
- Scholarship and financial aid consultancy
- Career guidance and internship placement programmes
These resources help students navigate academic and administrative challenges, enabling them to focus on learning and research.
Moving Forward: Concrete Steps for Collaboration
Both parties have agreed to establish a joint working group that will draft a Memorandum of Understanding covering research collaboration, PhD programmes, and mobility initiatives. The group will meet quarterly to monitor progress and explore additional funding opportunities, such as EU Horizon programmes and national research grants.
In addition to formal agreements, the university plans to host a series of workshops and joint conferences to showcase collaborative research. These events will provide a platform for faculty, researchers, and students from both countries to present findings, network, and establish long‑term research projects.
Engage with University of Debrecen’s International Community
Are you ready to pursue a degree in Hungary? To understand the scholarship options and support available for international students, click here to explore Stipendium Hungaricum programmes and how they can accelerate your academic journey.
Curious about dual‑degree possibilities with universities in the Balkan region? Learn more about our international partnership programmes and discuss potential collaborations with our Office of International Cooperation.
Interested in applying to study at the University of Debrecen? Submit your application today and take the first step towards a transformative higher‑education experience.
Have questions about living and studying in Hungary? Contact our International Office for personalised assistance and guidance.
Share your academic aspirations and travel experiences in the comments below—we welcome dialogue and community engagement!
