Debrecen4U April 30, 2026

Benedek Elek Primary School Celebrates 50th Anniversary with Grand Gala

The Benedek Elek Primary School is 50 years old. The institution’s anniversary event was held on 29 April at the neighbouring Meteor Centre, where a special gala celebrated the school’s half-century history, while the school community also paid tribute to its namesake, the great storyteller Elek Benedek.

Since 1976, the Benedek Elek Primary School—originally founded under the name Bocskai Square School—has educated thousands of pupils, and now its community marked the anniversary with a programme woven around fairy tales.

“A 50-year reflection on past events already represents a historical perspective; in a person’s life it is, in many respects, a decisive moment of reckoning. In the case of an institution or a community, it combines a connection to the roots of the past, responsibility in the present, and the hopeful opportunity to build the future,” emphasised József Hetei, Headteacher of the institution.

The school has borne the name of Elek Benedek for 34 years, and the great storyteller’s great-great-granddaughter also attended the celebration. “This moment is a special personal gift for me. As the great-great-granddaughter of Elek Benedek, I feel as though a family remembrance and the school community are coming together in a beautiful shared celebration,” said Orsolya Bardócz, performing artist and researcher, great-great-granddaughter of Elek Benedek.

At the celebration, Mayor László Papp recalled that half a century ago Debrecen was characterised by a genuine boom in school construction, during which this institution was also built. He highlighted the dedication of the teachers at the Benedek Elek School and its spirit worthy of its namesake. “The school’s teachers truly strive to uplift the children entrusted to their care and to raise them as sensitive and thoughtful individuals. The spirit of the great storyteller can therefore be recognised in many areas of the school’s activities,” László Papp pointed out.

The institution, which holds the title of a perpetual eco-school, has undergone numerous developments in recent years, making it more comfortable and energy-efficient. “A birthday would not be complete without a gift, so this year the institution will also receive a sports pitch with a rubberised surface,” announced László Türk, Director of the Debrecen School District Centre.

The Benedek Elek Primary School received an anniversary commemorative certificate from the school district, a certificate of recognition from the municipality, and the student body presented a gift package including a high-quality loudspeaker.

Source and photo credit: debrecen.hu