Debrecen4U March 20, 2026

University of Debrecen Strengthens US Relations with Discussions on Agricultural Innovation and a Dual Degree Programme

An agricultural science delegation from the University of Debrecen paid a professional visit to the United States with the aim of strengthening international educational and research cooperation and further developing existing partnerships. The discussions covered agricultural innovation, animal health, biotechnology and engineering research, as reported by unideb.hu.

The programme was attended by Endre Harsányi, Vice-Rector responsible for agricultural and food science development, László Zsombik, head of the Nyíregyháza Research Institute, and Péter István Fejér, a staff member of the Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences and Environmental Management. The delegation was accompanied by Béla Kocsy, agricultural attaché of Hungary’s embassy in Washington.

The delegation’s first stop was Brookings, South Dakota, where they held talks with leaders of South Dakota State University, including Provost Dennis Hedge, Dean John Cassady and Vice President Daniel T. Scholl. The discussions focused on developing a dual degree programme between the University of Debrecen and South Dakota State University. The parties reviewed the current operation of the programme, the students’ credit system, as well as possibilities for financing and further expansion. The delegation also met university leaders and students from Debrecen participating in the programme (Csenge Lili Tarjányi, Angéla Gizella Kovács, Ádám József Hosszú), who are currently continuing their studies at South Dakota State University.

During the visit, members of the delegation gained insight into the students’ daily lives and became familiar with the infrastructure supporting the programme.

The Hungarian students reported with enthusiasm that they had been selected for a study trip, during which they joined a group from South Dakota State University at the largest agricultural trade exhibition and conference in the United States, the Commodity Classic in Texas.

As part of the professional programme in Brookings, the delegation also held discussions with representatives of South Dakota Trade, and were received by Hunter Roberts, Secretary of Agriculture for the state of South Dakota. The meetings focused on further opportunities in agricultural innovation, research and development, and educational cooperation.

The university delegation also visited the Dakota BioWorx, where they learned about projects related to the development and commercialisation of agricultural innovations. The programme concluded with a reception hosted by Barry H. Dunn, President of South Dakota State University, at his residence.

The next stop of the professional visit was Lincoln, Nebraska, where discussions were held with leaders of the agricultural, veterinary and engineering faculties of the University of Nebraska on expanding educational and research cooperation. Sidonia Nicolae, Honorary Consul of Indiana, also joined the delegation for part of the programme.

Representatives of the University of Debrecen were also received by Robert B. Evnen, Secretary of State of Nebraska, who awarded them honorary Nebraska citizenship.

Following this, the delegation held talks in Indianapolis, Indiana, with Secretary of State Diego Morales.

As a result of the visit, the University of Debrecen strengthened its relations with several institutions in the fields of agricultural innovation, animal health, biotechnology and engineering research. This may contribute to expanding student and researcher mobility, as well as preparing new joint research and educational programmes.

Source: dehir.hu | Photo credit: Pixabay