Budapest Metropolitan University at APAIE 2026 in Hong Kong

Budapest Metropolitan University (METU) proudly participated in the APAIE 2026 Conference and Exhibition, held in Hong Kong between 23–27 February 2026. The university joined the event for the first time as a featured exhibitor, presenting together with the Study in Hungary stand coordinated by the Tempus Public Foundation.

APAIE is one of the most influential higher education conferences in the Asia-Pacific region, bringing together universities, international education professionals, and decision-makers from across the world. The event provides an important platform for institutions to strengthen existing partnerships, explore new collaborations, and discuss the future of international higher education.

METU was represented by Dr. Péter Rada, Vice-Rector for International Affairs, Fatima Weininger-Hollósi, Head of International Mobility Programs, and Géza Hollósi, Project Manager. During the conference, the delegation held numerous meetings with both existing and prospective international partners, discussing opportunities for cooperation and exchanging ideas on emerging trends shaping global higher education.

The Asia-Pacific region plays a central role in METU’s international strategy, and APAIE offers an excellent platform to position the university as a Central European gateway for Asian institutions seeking structured, Erasmus-compatible cooperation. Participating in the conference allowed METU to engage directly with institutional leaders and decision-makers, helping to build long-term strategic partnerships beyond exploratory mobility.

Throughout the event, METU highlighted its practice-oriented and innovative approach to education, emphasizing hands-on learning, strong industry connections, and an international academic environment. The university presented opportunities for collaboration in several areas, including:

1. student and staff mobility
2. joint and double degree programmes
3. capacity-building and inclusion projects
4. applied research cooperation
5. industry-linked education initiatives

As Hungary’s largest private university, METU combines academic quality with employability and personalized education in a highly international environment. Its strong global network and strategic partnerships provide partners with access to a broader academic ecosystem.

APAIE 2026 proved to be an excellent opportunity for the METU delegation to meet partners in person, discover new trends in international education, and better understand the rapidly evolving Asia-Pacific higher education market. The event not only strengthened existing collaborations but also opened promising new directions for future cooperation.