Post by QS Quacquarelli Symonds

An engaging day at the Advanced Business Skills Forum hosted by Széchenyi István Egyetem at the University of Győr, ahead of QS Higher Ed Summit: Europe 2026 in Budapest. The forum was a strong start to this week's discussions on talent, innovation and the future of higher education in the region, showcasing Hungary's position as a growing hub for industry collaboration, technological development and skills creation.   With contributions from an impressive line-up of industry and academic leaders including Széchenyi István Egyetem's Eszter Lukács and Tamás Kolossváry, AUDI Hungaria's Michael Breme, Ernie Audino CEO at Business Alliance, Nurol Makina's Mehmet ATAK, Tom Winney CEO at TATRA Export, Aselan's Ifakat Hande CEVIK ENYEDI, Sargis Hayotsyan Chairman of the RA MESCS Higher Education and Science Committee, Gürcan Demirci President of Constructor Tech, PwC's Csilla Steger, Huawei's Haoyi Liu and many, many more. Today's programme explored topics ranging from the academic-industry pipeline and innovation partnerships to AI, digital transformation and the future of work.   In his Welcome Remarks, QS President & Founder, Nunzio Quacquarelli, spoke about the global shifts accelerating the skills and employability transition, stating that the most competitive economies will be those that successfully align higher education, industry and public policy.   This theme emerged in conversations throughout the day, that the challenges and opportunities facing higher education, business and society are increasingly interconnected. Addressing them will require stronger partnerships across sectors, disciplines and borders, alongside a shared commitment to developing the talent and innovation ecosystems that will shape the future.   My thanks to our host, Széchenyi István University, as well as today's speakers, partners and delegates who contributed their expertise and perspectives for such a valuable forum.   Looking forward to continuing these conversations at the QS Higher Ed Summit: Europe 2026 over the coming days.   #QSHigherEdSummit #Innovation #IndustryPartnerships #TalentDevelopment #QSInsights