Debrecen4U February 17, 2026

University of Debrecen Celebrates 25 Years of Ingetration and Inaugurates New Rector

On January 1, 2000, the integrated university began operating with five university faculties and three college faculties, and has since grown into one of the largest educational complexes in the country. György Kossa, Chairman of the Gróf Tisza István Foundation for the University of Debrecen, stated that in 2000 the leaders of the previously separate institutions chose the future of the community. “This also laid the foundation for the 2021 model change, which was decisive because it restored genuine autonomy to the university, along with the possibility of free decision-making, responsible management, and long-term development,” he emphasized.

Károly Fekete, Bishop of the Trans-Tisza Reformed Church District, highlighted in his speech that at the beginning of the 20th century, the faculties of the university were formed from the academic departments of the Reformed College, which has been operating since 1538. During the Rákosi era, the Faculty of Theology was separated from the university. Although the Theological University could not join the integration, it concluded a cooperation agreement with the University of Debrecen as an associated member. “We continue to provide joint training programs in several areas even today. I thank the University of Debrecen for the fact that these living relationships still strengthen our fraternal institutional character rooted in our common origins,” he said.

In Debrecen, the city, the university, and the church mutually support one another, as noted by Mayor László Papp. He added that this represents an unparalleled competitive advantage for Debrecen both now and in the future. Therefore, a strategic plan extending to 2050 is being prepared in the fields of economic, educational, urban, and regional development. “Neither the city without the university, nor the university without the city, could have been this successful. By building on mutual advantages and capabilities, we have created one of Central Europe’s largest urban economies in Debrecen, which has had and will continue to have a tremendous impact on university development,” said Papp László.

“The power of knowledge can shape the future of the Hungarian nation, and the existence of a university always carries within it the country’s rise,” said President Tamás Sulyok in his address. He added that with the integration of the University of Debrecen, a knowledge center unique far beyond the region was created. “Universities in our country are resources for the success of the Hungarian people. In Hungary’s second-largest city, the capital of the countryside, the University of Debrecen is especially so. High standards and a pure intellectual spirit have always been expected here.”

At the gala ceremony, representatives of the city, the university, and the church signed a declaration stating that they will continue to work together in mutual support for Debrecen and the development of education.

At the ceremony, Zoltán Bács received his mandate as rector from the President of Hungary. He will lead the institution between May 1, 2026, and June 30, 2031.

The series of celebrations continued with a choral concert in the University Church. Afterwards, participants laid wreaths at the memorial column of the galley slaves.

Source: dehir.hu | Photo credit: Papp László (Facebook)