Highlights in International Relations at Semmelweis University in 2024

The Directorate of International Relations at Semmelweis University has made significant advancements in 2024 in developing its international partnerships and mobility programs, thereby strengthening the University’s global presence and recognition. 

According to Dr. Marcel Pop, Director of International Relations, Semmelweis University has deepened its collaboration with the world’s leading universities, while simultaneously increasing the number of traditional and excellence mobility programs. With the launch of new partnerships and international training activities in 2024, the Directorate has a new motto: “Semmelweis for Global Health.” 

As the year comes to a close, we take a brief look back and celebrate Semmelweis University’s significant achievements in international relations and global health education. Discover our highlights below.

• Launch of International Short Courses and Trainings

From 2024, under the coordination of the Directorate, the University aims to enhance its international visibility by introducing new fee-based international short programs.

Following the launch of the newly developed website including our short courses and training portfolio, successful professional study tours for practitioners and Semmelweis summer schools for students have been organized since July, attracting participants from various parts of the world. These programs have contributed not only to strengthening the University’s international integration but also to advancing global health education.

• Strengthening Asian International Relations

The leadership of Semmelweis University and the Directorate of International Relations welcomed several delegations from China and other East Asian countries throughout the year. In May 2024, Semmelweis University’s delegation held negotiations in China and Vietnam aimed at expanding collaborations with Asian partners and strengthening international relations.

A significant event in the realm of Chinese international and inter-institutional relations was the prestigious recognition awarded to Dr. Béla Merkely, Rector of Semmelweis University, in China. Additionally, a key achievement of the Directorate was the participation of Chinese students in intensive theoretical and clinical short programs organised by Semmelweis University on multiple occasions throughout the year. Furthermore, the implementation of exchange agreements with the National University of Singapore, Saitama Medical University, Okayama Medical University and Seoul National University further deepened the University’s professional partnerships and international relations in Asia.

• Development of American International Collaborations

Semmelweis University actively strengthened its connections in the United States as well. In March 2024, the first year of the joint program with Harvard Medical School was successfully completed. The 2023/24 cohort graduated with 57 participants, while the 2024/25 cohort began with 72 participants. This partnership has significantly contributed to enhancing the quality of clinical research and medical education, as well as boosting the University’s international reputation.

It is always a highlight when the film Semmelweis is presented under the University’s organisation. One of these occasions took place in October this year at the conference of the Hungarian Medical Association of America (HMAA) in Florida, held before a full house, further enhancing Semmelweis University’s international recognition.

Last but not least, of significant importance are the exchange agreements with Rutgers University, the State University of New York Buffalo School of Medicine, and the Houston Methodist Hospital, which facilitated international professional internships again this year. These agreements provide Semmelweis University students with opportunities for transatlantic exchange and pave the way for future collaborative research projects.

• Participation in the EUniWell European University Alliance

Semmelweis University has further deepened its engagement within the EUniWell (European University for Well-Being) Alliance. In May 2024, the National Research, Development and Innovation Office awarded the University a grant for the implementation of the European project, supporting the maintenance of collaboration within the Alliance, which comprises 11 European member universities, as well as the development of joint research and educational initiatives during the 2023-2027 period.

A highlight of the year was the closing event of the EUniWell #Research project, hosted at Semmelweis University, where the consortium leaders outlined the foundations of the EUniWell research and innovation ecosystem, and presented the results of the 3-year project. Following this event, Semmelweis University hosted the Times Higher Education Impact Forum, attended by EUniWell senior leaders and professional delegations from EUniWell member universities, further strengthening opportunities for international collaboration.

• Launch of the Pannonia Scholarship Program

The Pannonia Scholarship Program was launched in July 2024, offering new mobility opportunities and grants for students and faculty members of Semmelweis University across the globe. Coordinated by the Tempus Public Foundation and the Directorate of International Relations, the program has already facilitated numerous highly successful student and researcher mobilities this year, ranging from surgical internships in Japan to research programs at Harvard University. These opportunities enable participants to gain international experience, expand their professional expertise, and build global networks. 

• Expansion of the Stipendium Hungaricum Program

The number of participants in the Stipendium Hungaricum Program, managed by the Directorate of International Relations, exceeded 400 at Semmelweis University in 2024, marking a significant increase compared to previous years. This program offers students from various countries around the world the opportunity to pursue their studies in Hungary, contributing to the international diversity and reputation of Hungarian universities.

DIRECTOR’S GREETINGS