For one week, the Kaposvár Campus of the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences became a meeting point for the international scientific community. Students and early-career researchers from several countries around the world gained up-to-date knowledge of modern research methodology at MATE’s international summer school, while also having the opportunity to discover Hungarian culture and traditions.

The international summer school is closely aligned with MATE’s efforts to further strengthen its international scientific relations and research collaborations.

 “Being ranked among the world’s top 100 agricultural universities is not only a matter of prestige, but also a responsibility: we must build an international scientific community that is open to cooperation and knowledge sharing,” said Dr Csaba Gyuricza, Rector of MATE. He added that international summer schools are an important part of this endeavour, providing young researchers and students with opportunities for professional development and networking.

The participants were welcomed at the opening ceremony by Dr Zoltán Kovács, Vice-Rector for Research and International Relations at MATE. The academic programme was led by Dr Zoltán Lakner and featured contributions from both MATE faculty members and international guest lecturers. Among them was Marianna Siničáková, lecturer at the Faculty of Economics of the Technical University of Košice.

Throughout the week, participants gained a comprehensive overview of key issues in modern research methodology and scientific publishing. The academic programme covered methods of conducting systematic literature reviews, bibliometrics and scientometrics, the use of the R programming environment, big data analysis, qualitative and quantitative research methods, as well as practical aspects of academic paper writing and research proposal development. Participants also had the opportunity to take part in individual consultations and to present their own research.

 Considerable emphasis was also placed on gaining practical experience. As part of the programme, participants visited the laboratories of the Kaposi Mór Teaching Hospital, where they were introduced to the PET-CT and PET-MR facilities. They also visited MATE’s Deer Farm in Bőszénfa and took part in recreational activities at Lake Deseda.

Hungarian traditions also played an important role alongside the scientific programme. Participants prepared goulash together and later made kürtőskalács (chimney cake) based on Dr Zoltán Kovács’s own recipe. Dr Csaba Gyuricza, Rector of MATE, also joined the programme, and the students actively participated in preparing the chimney cakes. In this way, alongside the academic programme, they were able to experience Hungarian gastronomic traditions first-hand.

At the official closing ceremony, participants received certificates in recognition of their successful completion of the Summer School. In addition to acquiring up-to-date professional knowledge, the students left with new international connections, shared experiences and lasting memories, further strengthening MATE’s international community.