
The IEEE Central European Artificial Intelligence Summit recently took place in Budapest bringing together over a hundred speakers and 350 participants from academia industry and government. Organized with the support of Óbuda University IEEE Hungary Section the John von Neumann Computer Society IEEE Standards Association and the HUN‑REN Institute for Computer Science and Control the event highlighted how Budapest and the surrounding region are becoming active shapers of the global AI ecosystem.
Opening remarks were delivered by Laszlo Palkovics Government Commissioner for Artificial Intelligence Clara Neppel of IEEE Europe Professor Jozsef Bokor of HUN‑REN SZTAKI and Daniel Drexler President of the IEEE Hungary Section. Plenary lectures featured Nicola Kasabov from Auckland University of Technology discussing neuromorphic predictive AI and Oussama Khatib from Stanford University presenting visions of human‑robot collaboration.
Parallel sessions covered topics ranging from the theoretical foundations of AI to cutting‑edge industrial applications including Large Language Models space‑based AI medical technology and digital humanism. Panel discussions addressed AI regulation governance and the societal impacts of an AI‑powered space economy.
During the summit the CE AI Hub Initiative was launched spontaneously by IEEE with participation from the IEEE AI Coalition. The hub creates an open platform for Central and Eastern European universities and research centers to jointly discuss AI challenges share experiences and establish collaborations. Signatories included rectors from Óbuda University the Technical University of Kosice the University of Miskolc the University of Debrecen and University North along with representatives from HUN‑REN SZTAKI and the Adriatic Aerospace Association of Croatia.
This new platform aims to strengthen cooperation knowledge sharing and active participation in the international AI community positioning Central Europe as a dominant player on the global AI map.
The second day featured a plenary talk by David Alexander of Rice University on AI‑powered space AI adoption in a commercial space economy. The Strix2025 Award ceremony celebrated Hungary’s first AI competition recognizing outstanding domestic innovations. Subsequent panels explored Space Technology & AI Large Language Models MedTech and Scientific Applications showcasing how AI drives research across disciplines.
Budapest’s vibrant academic community strong engineering tradition and growing network of international partners make it an ideal location for AI advancement. The city’s universities including Óbuda University offer specialized programs that blend theory with hands‑on projects preparing students for careers in AI research development and application.
If you are inspired by the summit and want to build a career in artificial intelligence Óbuda University provides several pathways:
Whether you are a student evaluating study options or a professional looking to upskill the momentum generated by the CE AI Summit shows that Budapest is a promising place to pursue AI excellence. Take the first step today by exploring the programs and resources available at Óbuda University.
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