Times Higher Education convened university leaders in Hong Kong for the Asia Universities Summit 2026 under the theme “Igniting global transformation: Asia’s leadership.” Against this backdrop, Óbuda University advanced the conversation on sustainable institutional strategy and international academic influence. Representing the university, Rector Prof. Dr. Levente Kovács joined a presidents’ session focused on higher education leadership, institutional resilience, and long-term societal impact.
Balancing Stability and Strategic Agility in Global Academia
During the session “The steward’s compass: Cultivating legacy in an age of disruption,” Rector Kovács outlined how universities can preserve core academic values while responding to external change. He emphasized that institutions must anchor their mission in public service rather than political cycles, ensuring academic independence alongside measurable contributions to society through education and research.
Reflecting on Óbuda University’s trajectory, Rector Kovács noted that the institution combines established academic traditions with the operational flexibility of a modern university. Since gaining university status in 2010, the institution has maintained continuity in its educational mission while adapting its strategic priorities to emerging global demands. This dual perspective supports stable governance alongside responsive program development and research investment.
Advancing Internationalization and Research Impact
Asked about sustaining leadership legacy, Rector Kovács identified three priorities for future institutional development: expanding internationalization, strengthening global visibility, and concentrating resources on strategically prioritized research and development areas. These objectives align with efforts to elevate performance in international rankings, including within the Times Higher Education framework.
Targeted research investment allows Óbuda University to deepen expertise in innovation-critical fields while increasing collaboration with industry and academic partners. By aligning research strategy with long-term societal needs, the university seeks to enhance both scholarly impact and practical relevance across its faculties and innovation ecosystems.
Global Engagement Through Partnerships and Innovation
Beyond formal sessions, Óbuda University maintained an active presence throughout the summit. An exhibition booth provided a platform to present educational programs, research achievements, and innovation initiatives to international peers and prospective students. These interactions reinforced the university’s strategic focus on expanding its global footprint, particularly within Asian academic and innovation networks.
Engagement at the summit also supports ongoing efforts to diversify international partnerships, attract globally mobile students, and integrate best practices from leading institutions. By participating in high-level dialogues and peer exchanges, Óbuda University strengthens its capacity to deliver internationally competitive education and research outcomes.
Strengthening Institutional Position Through Strategic Action
Events such as the THE Asia Summit offer a forum for benchmarking institutional strategy against global peers and refining approaches to leadership and governance. For Óbuda University, consistent participation in international forums contributes to clearer positioning within global higher education landscapes.
As the university continues to prioritize internationalization, research excellence, and cross-sector collaboration, it builds a foundation for durable institutional growth. These efforts support both immediate performance improvements and long-term resilience in a competitive global environment.
Institutions seeking to expand their international reach and research capabilities can explore partnership and study opportunities with Óbuda University. Engaging directly with international offices provides clarity on program alignment, mobility options, and collaborative research pathways.
Academic leaders and prospective students interested in strategic institutional development may connect with Óbuda University’s international relations team to discuss engagement frameworks, joint initiatives, and participation in global academic networks.
For applicants focused on innovation-driven fields, reviewing available programs at Óbuda University offers a practical starting point for aligning study plans with research strengths and industry partnerships.
Sustained investment in international visibility and research quality positions Óbuda University to contribute actively to global higher education leadership. Through targeted strategy and cross-border collaboration, the university continues to translate institutional values into measurable academic and societal outcomes.
