The news in Hungarian
A Budapesti Műszaki és Gazdaságtudományi Egyetem (BME) új működési modellről tárgyal december 9-én. Az egyetem továbbra is állami lesz, de állami cégek is részt vehetnek az irányításban . A cél , hogy a pénzügyi helyzet javuljon . A modellváltás nem érinti az egyetem épületeit vagy nemzetközi programokban való részvételét.
Translation
The Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME) is discussing a new operational model on December 9th. The university will remain state-owned, but state companies may also participate in its management. The goal is to improve the financial situation. The model change will not affect the university's buildings or its participation in international programmes.
Exercise: Text comprehension
Question 1: What date is BME discussing the new operational model?
BME is discussing the new operational model on December 9th.
Question 2: Will the new operational model affect the university's buildings or international programs?
No, the new operational model will not affect the university's buildings or international programs.
Exercise: Vocabulary
Read the full story
▌30/11/2024
The Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME) is set to deliberate a significant shift in its operational framework. This development marks a new phase for one of the last four state-run Hungarian universities that have resisted such changes in higher education structuring. On 9 December, the Senate of BME will vote on establishing a delegation authorised to thoroughly negotiate and implement the proposed model change.
The proposed transformation is not a move towards a foundation-based model, which several other universities in Hungary have adopted, but rather a shift where state-owned companies might play a pivotal role in the university's management. Charaf Hassan, the newly appointed rector of BME, detailed this potential change during a recent university forum. He explained that while the university would remain under state operation, businesses capable of enhancing BME’s financial and market interactions could share governance responsibilities. The shift aims to establish a partnership with substantial local firms that can provide additional funding, thereby strengthening the university’s economic ties.
The model modification includes an increase in basic state funding complemented by a new performance-based funding structure. Importantly, this aligns with the university’s objectives of maintaining high educational standards, enhancing its autonomy, and offering competitive compensation for staff.
BME Considers New Operational Model with State Companies (Illustration)
Despite the model shift, the BME will retain control over its infrastructure and real estate assets, although the terms of these assets’ management may be subject to alteration and reinforcement. The proposed change is designed to prevent the university from being excluded from international programs like Erasmus and the Horizon 2020, a risk faced by other institutions that adopted a foundation model.
Previous attempts at resisting such transformations have come at a cost for BME, with reports earlier this year suggesting potential downsizing due to financial constraints. Nonetheless, the university administration and staff union have engaged in discussions with the ministry, optimistically seeking resolutions.
At the upcoming Senate meeting, Rector Hassan is anticipated to seek approval to further develop and implement this proposed model change. He has assured that negotiations will include input from university leaders and student representatives through various committees, emphasising a collaborative approach towards navigating this pivotal institutional decision.
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