The integration of the University of Debrecen 25 years ago created a unique centre of knowledge

The integration of the University of Debrecen created a unique centre of knowledge, and the integrated institutions have together made the city internationally renowned, said Dr. Tamás Sulyok, President of Hungary, in his speech at the 25th anniversary ceremony of the university's founding.

The Head of State pointed out that the University of Debrecen plays a special role in shaping Hungary, as the power of knowledge can determine the future of the Hungarian people, and the existence of a university always contributes to the rise of a country.

Referring to the integration of the universities in Debrecen in 2000, Dr. Tamás Sulyok said that 25 years ago, a significant change affecting the life of the entire nation took place in the city, a change that was far-reaching and long-lasting. The integration created a knowledge centre that is unique in the world: the University of Agricultural Sciences, the University of Medicine, Kossuth Lajos University and the Varga István College of Education in Hajdúböszörmény were united in a single prestigious institution, emphasised the Head of State, who said that the four higher education institutions combined their competitive knowledge and, together with their international network of contacts, raised the profile of Debrecen, thereby increasing the self-esteem and international reputation of the Hungarian people.

Dr. Tamás Sulyok stated that the power of knowledge could determine the future of the Hungarian people. According to the Head of State, the graduates of the civic city could have a serious say in how the fate of our country would unfold in the 21st century, what Hungary or the whole of Europe would be like in 25, 50 or 100 years' time.

The Head of State said that the motto of the former Reformed College—Orando et Laborando (Through Prayer and Labour)—has emphasized for almost half a millennium that what is in people’s minds and hearts has always mattered in this city.

The anniversary event was attended by György Kossa, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Count István Tisza Foundation for the University of Debrecen, Károly Fekete, Bishop of the Reformed Church District of Tiszántúl, and László Papp, Mayor of Debrecen. At the event, a ceremonial declaration was signed on "the unity, historical continuity and common mission of the Debrecen University Community and the City of Debrecen".

At the ceremony held in the auditorium of the University of Debrecen, Zoltán Bács, University Professor and current Chancellor of the University, received his appointment as Rector from the Head of State.