The nuclear industry is an economic and technological breakthrough point for Hungary. In order to exploit the opportunities inherent in the sector, it is necessary to strengthen and systematize professional training and research and development capacities. The key player in this process may be the University of Dunaújváros, the vision and development of which were discussed by the representatives of the government with the leaders of the institution on 12 February 2021 in Dunaújváros.

Dr. László Palkovics, Minister for Innovation and Technology, János Süli, Minister without Portfolio responsible for the planning, construction and commissioning of the two new units of the Paks Nuclear Power Plant, and Dr. Orsolya Pacsay-Tomassich, State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, visited the institution after the university senate decided in January to initiate measures toward the change in the operational system of the university.

The sustainable operation of the University of Dunaújváros can be ensured in the long run by taking on new tasks as a coordinator of trainings and research related to Hungary's nuclear industry, modernizing, expanding its own training offer and organizing the activities of other relevant Hungarian universities and research sites. In addition to the expansion of Paks, which is the culmination of domestic industrial development, the operation of the existing units of the nuclear power plant, that covers a significant part of the electricity supply from a clean energy source and reduces Hungary's energy dependence, is also a task of national strategic importance. The trainings guaranteeing continuous and high-quality professional supply, the research capacities to be built on the basis of the university and other institutions cooperating with it, can be realized at the highest level in the region and develop its economy.

Minister for Innovation and Technology László Palkovics said:

“In the period until 2026, the government will spend more than 1,500 billion forints on the development of Hungarian universities and vocational training. Model-changing higher educational institutions can respond more quickly to the economic needs of their region, based on local conditions. With the modernization of specialized university training and the construction of its quality infrastructure, it can also become a regional knowledge center in the nuclear industry in Hungary.”

János Süli, Minister without Portfolio responsible for the expansion of the Paks Nuclear Power Plant, emphasized:

“The Paks II. investment will dynamize the region’s economy. One proof of this is that the University of Dunaújváros can play a key role in the future development of the nuclear industry, maintaining its current functions in Hungary. A resource center for technical training and research and development can be established in Dunaújváros, on which the companies of the region and the Hungarian national economy will be able to build on a lasting basis thanks to the decades-long knowledge of nuclear energy that is outstanding at the international level.”

Orsolya Pacsay-Tomassich, State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, highlighted:

“As the ministry responsible for energy diplomacy and educational diplomacy, we are experiencing a strong demand worldwide for well-trained nuclear professionals and modern technologies. The nuclear knowledge center to be established at the University of Dunaújváros combines theoretical and practical training in a unique way, ensuring the security of supply and competitiveness of the industry. Thus, professional training, research and professional services related to the nuclear industry will become Hungary's internationally recognized and sought-after export product.”

 From left to right: Mr. János Süli, Minister without Portfolio responsible for the expansion of the Paks Nuclear Power Plant, Dr. Orsolya Pacsay-Tomassich, State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Dr. László Palkovics, Minister for Innovation and Technology, Dr. István András, Rector of the University of Dunaújváros