Access to university underrepresented groups recruit (10.6.3)

Széchenyi István University undertakes targeted actions to widen participation and improve access to higher education for underrepresented groups. The University provides a comprehensive support system for students with disabilities and special educational needs through the Special Needs Students Equal Opportunities Committee and faculty-level coordinators. Prospective students are encouraged to contact coordinators before applying and choosing a program in order to receive information about programme requirements, available accommodations and support services, helping to reduce barriers to participation in higher education. Coordinators provide information on programme requirements, available accommodations, accessible conditions and support services, helping applicants with disabilities make informed decisions about their studies and reducing barriers to participate in higher education.

Széchenyi István University publicly provides detailed information for prospective students with disabilities regarding academic accommodation, assistive technologies, accessible dormitory accommodation, accessible campus facilities, sign-language interpretation services and other support measures available during their studies.

In 2025, Széchenyi István University publicly highlighted its accessibility measures, mentoring opportunities, inclusive learning environment and support services for students with special needs. Széchenyi István University has an ongoing commitment to encouraging participation from underrepresented groups, including students with disabilities.

Széchenyi István University further supports the recruitment and inclusion of underrepresented groups through its partnership with the Association of Hungarian Women in Science (NaTE). The organisation promotes equal opportunities for girls and women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), encourages female participation in higher education and research, and works to reduce gender stereotypes related to scientific and technological careers. Through initiatives such as Girls’ Day (Lányok Napja), mentoring and career-orientation programmes, young women gain first-hand insight into STEM professions, meet female role models and researchers, and are encouraged to pursue studies in fields where women have traditionally been underrepresented. This partnership contributes to the University’s broader commitment to widening participation and improving access to higher education for underrepresented groups.

As part of its commitment to widening participation in higher education, Széchenyi István University participates in the “Teach for Hungary” (Tanítsunk Magyarországért) Programme, which supports students from disadvantaged and rural communities in exploring further education and career opportunities. The University continued its participation in the programme in 2025, with university student mentors working directly with pupils from smaller settlements, providing guidance, motivation and first-hand insight into higher education pathways. By helping young people develop aspirations for continued study and informed career choices, the programme contributes to reducing educational inequalities and improving access to higher education for underrepresented groups.

For staff and faculty, the Gender Equality Plan (2025–2027) sets planned measures to ensure equal opportunities in recruitment, selection and promotion procedures and to achieve gender balance in leadership and decision-making bodies (Intézményi célkitűzések, pp. 4–7). The Equal Opportunities Plan (2025–2027) commits the University to equal treatment in recruitment and to accessible working conditions for employees with disabilities.