Where Academia and the Business World Intersect: New Utility Infrastructure and Road Network at SZTE Science Park

Boosted by a HUF 9.5 billion investment from the Hungarian government, the utility infrastructure and road network development project at the University of Szeged’s Science Park has been successfully completed. To mark this milestone, a handover and unveiling ceremony was held on February 7, 2025. The event brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the University of Szeged, the Hungarian government, Szeged City Council, the academic community, contractor companies, and members of the press.

Prof. Dr. László Rovó, Rector of the University of Szeged, speaking about the role of the Science Park in shaping the future. Photo by István Sahin-Tóth

Prof. Dr. László Rovó, Rector of the University of Szeged, underscored the significance of the utility network with a medical analogy: “Without the network of veins and nerves in the body, even the greatest mind would not function.” He went on to highlight the transformation of the former Soviet barracks – acquired over a decade ago – into a hub set to shape the future. “Before these latest developments by the University, the ELI ALPS project was launched here, establishing one of the world’s most advanced laser technology centers. Then came Rheinmetall, which, in just a few years, will deliver the next generation of mobility solutions. We have every reason to be proud of our achievements so far, but even greater progress lies ahead,” the Rector stated.

Minister for Energy Csaba Lantos emphasized that the newly completed project will pave the way for the creation of a whole new district in Szeged. Photo by István Sahin-Tóth

The ceremony was attended by Csaba Lantos, Minister for Energy and former board member of the Foundation for the University of Szeged. Reflecting on his involvement with the university, Lantos emphasized the importance of fostering closer ties between academia and the business sector. “The disadvantages of this disconnect have always been evident. It’s a phenomenon that world-renowned physicist Zoltán Bay once described, saying, ‘I believe they don’t speak the same language, which is why they never get beyond square one,’” the Minister noted.

Csaba Lantos emphasized the critical need to bridge the gap between academia and business to ensure that scientific progress and economic development mutually reinforce one another. “We must also recognize that advancements in both fields are accelerating at an increasingly rapid pace. To remain competitive in this race, it is essential to consciously work towards connecting our universities and research institutions with the global scientific community and the private sector,” the Minister added – pointing out that there could be no better example of such a connection than the University of Szeged and its Science Park. He also explained that with the completion of the new project, a dynamic new district will be created in Szeged, serving as a hub for practice-oriented education and innovation collaborations.

In her speech, Dr. Judit Fendler, Chancellor of the University of Szeged, highlighted that the development concept of the Science Park represented the university’s first effort to go beyond its traditional scope of education, research, and healthcare. “From the outset, our intention was to create an environment capable of attracting market-leading companies and fostering research innovations,” she stated. Additionally, the Chancellor recalled that the establishment of the utility infrastructure and road network for the Science Park was completed in just over a year and a half, with a HUF 9.5 billion allocation from the national budget.

Construction on the project began in the summer of 2023, with the construction companies Colas Út Építőipari Zrt. and DÉLÚT Építő és Bányászati Kft. leading the efforts. By December 2024, the entire internal road network of the 85-hectare site was completed on schedule, along with the installation of drinking water, sewage, gas, electricity, and telecommunications infrastructure. In addition, the stormwater drainage system was established, public lighting was installed, and landscaping was carried out.

“Thanks to this investment, we are set to attract a growing number of both domestic and international companies as investors,” stated Dr. Judit Fendler, Chancellor of the University of Szeged.

“Through this project, we have been able to meet the requirements set by Rheinmetall, the first global company to establish operations here, planning to manufacture components for hydrogen-powered vehicles in Szeged,” the Chancellor explained. “This development has been years in the making, starting in 2011. Since then, the world’s most advanced laser research center has been built on a 15-hectare site at the heart of this area, while in 2022, the university opened a 3,300-square-meter incubator building, repurposed from the former officers’ quarters.” The Chancellor also emphasized the significance of the Energy Innovation Test Station, which began operations in May of the previous year.

Dr. Judit Fendler expressed her conviction that the Science Park investment will encourage more domestic and international companies to establish a presence in the region, further strengthening its economy. She added that the influx of investors, along with the university’s collaborations, will help retain highly skilled graduates in Szeged and its surroundings, thereby reducing migration from the area.