In a significant stride towards fostering international collaboration, the North-West University (NWU) recently formalised its partnership with Budapest Metropolitan University in Hungary through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The event took place during the visit by delegations from the Budapest Metropolitan University and the University of Miskolc, Hungary to the NWU, symbolising a commitment to deepening collaborative efforts, facilitating exchanges, and pursuing joint research and development initiatives.
This collaborative venture traces its roots back to 2020 when the NWU research unit Global Innovative Forefront Talent (GIFT) seised the opportunity to extend its global reach through the ERASMUS Mobility funding programme, establishing a partnership with the University of Miskolc.
The collaboration, which took firm shape in 2023, marked the beginning of a robust relationship dedicated to fostering collaborative projects and exchanging innovative ideas in the realms of education and technology.
The approval of GIFT's ERASMUS Mobility funding application in July 2022 was a pivotal moment, providing the framework for meaningful connections with international academic institutions. This laid the groundwork for future collaborations and knowledge exchange, setting the stage for the subsequent formalisation of partnerships.
In May 2023, four GIFT managers visited the University of Miskolc, engaging in intensive discussions and exploratory sessions. This visit forged collaborative ties across various projects, spanning technology, education and research, laying the foundation for joint initiatives between GIFT and the University of Miskolc.
Building on the momentum gained from the collaboration with the University of Miskolc, a delegation from Budapest Metropolitan University visited the NWU in February 2024. The visit aimed to refine collaborative efforts with the University of Miskolc and explore potential ventures with Budapest Metropolitan University. Discussions during this visit underscored the commitment to interdisciplinary collaborations, emphasising innovation in education and technology.
As part of their visit, the delegation explored the NWU Business School and invited them to participate in the Green Conference scheduled to take place in Hungary.
The delegation also had the opportunity to witness the NWU's engineering processes through the Glider Project, spearheaded by Prof Attie Jonker. This project showcased international collaboration and highlighted the NWU's commitment to engineering innovation.
In addition, the visit included interactions with the NWU's Health Sciences faculty, a visit to the Animal Health Clinic, and an exploration of the galaxy at the Mahikeng Astronomy Observatory.
GIFT's journey, from ERASMUS Mobility funding to tangible partnerships, reflects a steadfast commitment to global collaboration. The exchange of ideas, formalised agreements and visits to various faculties, exemplify its dedication to addressing
global challenges, driving innovation, and enriching the academic landscape on an international scale.
The signing of the MoU with Budapest Metropolitan University is a pivotal step in this journey, solidifying the NWU's position as a hub for global collaboration and academic excellence.
Prof Jeffrey Mphahlele, NWU deputy vice-chancellor for research and innovation, signing the MoU with Prof Dr Gyorgy Kocziszky, rector of the Budapest Metropolitan University and former member of the Monetary Council.
From left are from the Faculty of Economics at the University of Misckolc Dr Szabolcs Nagy, vice-dean for international relations, Tamás Bakó, assistant professor and project manager, Prof Dr István Takács, college professor and head of the Internal Medicine department, Prof Dr Mariann Veresné Somosi, dean, Prof Jeffrey Mphahlele from the NWU, Prof Dr Gyorgy Kocziszky, rector of the Budapest Metropolitan University, and Prof Anna-Marie Pelser, research professor and director of GIFT.
