2026-10-01 22:20
The John von Neumann University's International Week focused on the meeting of different cultures, shared experiences, and strengthening the university’s international ties. As part of a week-long series of events, the Neumann International Picnic was held for the fifth time on September 30, 2026, serving as the week’s central event and bringing together Hungarian and international students as well as members of the university community.
The JvNU community is becoming increasingly international year after year; in the 2026–27 academic year, 581 new international students began their studies at the university, meaning that Neumann now provides learning, development, and community opportunities for nearly 800 international students.
During the week, participants gained insight not only into the university’s educational and research opportunities but also into the diversity of Kecskemét and the region. As part of the program, the educational and infrastructural facilities of CAMPUS and GAMF were presented; participants visited the Univer factory and also toured Kecskemét City Hall. Their exploration of the city was rounded out by a group city tour, during which they were able to learn more about Kecskemét’s history, cultural heritage, and most important landmarks.
The highlight of the week was the fifth Neumann International Picnic. At the event, students from numerous countries around the world had the opportunity to meet one another; they were welcomed by Dr. habil. Tamás Fülöp, rector of John von Neumann University. In his speech, he emphasized that the university is now a truly international community of knowledge, where different cultures meet and science becomes a common language.
“Today is, above all, about community, friendship, and shared experiences,” said the rector, who encouraged students to make the most of every opportunity during their time at the university, to be curious and open to each other’s cultures, and to build relationships that could last a lifetime.
The International Week programs continued throughout the rest of the week. Participants met with representatives responsible for the Erasmus+ mobility programs and then visited the Leskowsky Musical Instrument Collection, where they were able to discover one of Kecskemét’s special and unique cultural treasures.
The JvNU's community believes that the encounter between different nations, cultures, and perspectives is just as valuable a learning process as that which takes place in classrooms, laboratories, or research workshops.
