The University of Szeged was recently invited to the first International Sustainability Leaders Meeting, where a representative from the university participated as a panelist alongside delegates from the world’s leading ‘green’ universities. The event, hosted by Abu Dhabi University in collaboration with UI GreenMetric, brought together prominent figures in the field to explore innovative sustainability initiatives and share best practices.
The 1st International Sustainability Leaders Meeting (ISLM 2025) took place on February 26 and 27, 2025 at Abu Dhabi University, organized in partnership with the UI GreenMetric international network of universities. The event served as an assembly of several institutions ranked among the top 100 ‘green’ universities in the UI GreenMetric World Ranking, and featured the University of Szeged, alongside esteemed institutions such as the University of São Paulo (Brazil), the University of Diponegoro (Indonesia), and the University of L'Aquila (Italy). Additionally, key industry players, including the Abu Dhabi Environmental Protection Agency, as well consultancy and ranking organizations like UI GreenMetric, QS, and Times Higher Education, also participated in the meeting.
Source: adu.ac.ae
The event included a series of presentations and professional forums focused on urgent sustainability issues, innovative strategies, ambitious targets, and best practices. Approximately 250 participants from 40 countries around the world gathered to engage in these critical discussions. Among them, the University of Szeged was honored with an invitation to contribute to a panel discussion highlighting the outstanding efforts and solutions implemented by universities.
“The ISLM not only offered valuable insights into the practices of leading global green universities in achieving sustainable development goals and addressing environmental challenges but also facilitated the establishment of new relationships and the strengthening of existing collaborations,” says Dr. Dénes Mátyás, the University of Szeged’s deputy director for sustainability and head of the ‘Green SZTE’ Program.
According to the deputy director, it is important to note that the University of Szeged has garnered significant recognition for its green solutions and energy-saving, environmentally friendly technologies that support its operations. This acclaim extends to the impactful research conducted at the University and the Centre of Excellence for Interdisciplinary Research, Development, and Innovation (IKIKK). Additionally, the University’s innovative curriculum, extensive course development efforts, and pioneering programs designed to shape values and attitudes have been recognized as exemplary best practices.
Original Hungarian text by SZTEinfo
