During the visit, delegation members held discussions with Prof. Peter Finn, College Principal, during which they reviewed common strategic goals and future opportunities for cooperation. Key topics included the social role of Catholic higher education, as well as current European trends and best practices in teacher training.
Pázmány Péter Catholic University was represented by Dr. Bence Tamássy, Head of the Central Office for Foreign Affairs; Tamás Hógenburg, Head of the International Office of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences; and Dr. habil. Michael McAteer, Associate Professor at the Institute of English and American Studies.
During the three-day program, the parties held several meetings to discuss the expansion of international educational cooperation, research partnerships, and Erasmus+ mobility opportunities. These discussions were coordinated by Professor Gerard McCann, St Mary’s International Coordinator.
As part of the visit, Dr. habil. Michael McAteer gave a lecture as part of St. Mary’s “Inspiring Insights” lecture series. In his lecture, he spoke about his personal and academic career and presented the main themes of his forthcoming book, which examines the connections between Irish and Hungarian political and literary relations in the 19th century. Following this, Dr. Bence Ákos Tamássy gave a brief presentation to the students about PPKE and the study opportunities available there. The event concluded with a Q&A section and a discussion with the students.
The delegation also toured the St. Mary’s campus, met with staff and students, and gained insight into the institution’s Catholic educational mission, its teacher-training program, and its exemplary community engagement.
Following the visit, Prof. Finn emphasized that there are numerous areas between the two Catholic higher education institutions where collaboration and the exchange of experiences can create real value for students and the broader communities.
The visit marks an important milestone in strengthening the international partnership between Pázmány and St. Mary’s University College and further reinforces both institutions’ commitment to international dialogue and academic cooperation.
Original article and photos: Delegation from Budapest - St Mary's University College
