University of the Year: National Recognition for Successful Admissions Campaigns

"This university offers a life-changing experience, where science, sustainability, and student traditions together shape the future," was the message in a short film introducing the University of Sopron during the ceremony. The university’s slogan — “Naturally with You!” — is a living reality, echoed across its social media platforms, student activities, and the steadily increasing number of applicants. The university’s admissions campaign effectively reached young people. Some of its social media content received millions of views, with the most successful post surpassing 20 million views. The key to the campaign's success lies in the strength of the university community: current students actively participate in recruitment programs, represent the university at the Educatio Expo, and return to their former high schools to share personal experiences that inspire future applicants. The alumni network also plays a significant role, with many choosing Sopron’s unique programs based on a multigenerational connection to the institution. As part of the campaign, university lecturers held special sessions in high schools, while the University of Sopron Days music festival offered an experience-based introduction to the university.

“Our admissions campaigns aim not only to increase applicant numbers but also to communicate the unified, authentic, and community-centered message that permeates everything we do at the University of Sopron. The University of the Year 2025 Award, besides being a prestigious recognition, also shows that the institution can reach out to future generations in a distinctive, coherent, and genuine way. What we represent matters — but even more so, how we represent it,” stated Prof. Dr. Attila Fábián after the ceremony. He added that the nationwide attention their joint efforts received confirms their belief that communication is a true connection — a bridge between the university and its future students.

The rector emphasized that communications in fields such as forestry, wood sciences, economics, and education are all characterized by creativity, uniqueness, and a strategically built approach. The results are grounded in the high professional competence and dedication of the staff, student feedback, and responsible decisions made at a strategic level. He also highlighted the University's value-driven, close-knit, and secure environment, adding: “We honor and maintain our traditions, but as a ‘green university,’ we are committed to delivering modern, sustainable, and innovative responses to the challenges of the future. I am filled with pride and gratitude to be a member and leader of this supportive community. My thanks go to all who have contributed their expertise and dedication to our success — including this latest national recognition.”

Prof. Dr. Fábián also noted that in recent years, the University of Sopron has reached several milestones aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals: it became Hungary’s first carbon-positive university through its biomass-based heating system, modernized its dormitories, expanded with a new educational and research center, and introduced digital learning platforms to ensure that students learn in the most modern environment possible. Most recently, as part of a HUF 2.2 billion project funded by national and EU sources, the university inaugurated state-of-the-art digital classrooms and a media studio. According to the rector, these developments have transformed buildings and systems and strengthened the institution's future: “We will continue our work to ensure that our students are welcomed into an inspiring environment, fully prepared for the challenges of the 21st century.”

The University of the Year 2025 Award was established by the Ministry of Culture and Innovation to recognize the outstanding achievements of Hungarian higher education institutions. The awards were presented in eight categories: sports, innovation, international relations, creativity, family-friendly approach, student-friendly approach, admissions campaigns, and culture.

Sopron, May 29, 2025