Cross sectoral dialogue about SDGs (17.2.2)

Cross-sectoral policy dialogue

Széchenyi István University actively contributes to cross-sectoral policy dialogue concerning the sustainable development of the Szigetköz region. University researchers participated with HÉTFA Research Institute in preparing the expert study supporting the proposed designation of Szigetköz as a priority development region. The policy-development process involves county and local governments, central government, research organisations, civil society and other territorial stakeholders. Multiple professional consultations were held during preparation of the study, including consultation with the Ministry of Public Administration and Regional Development. The resulting study addresses coordinated sustainable regional development, sustainable management of natural and water resources, environmental protection, renewable energy and regional cooperation. The process also provides for broader stakeholder consultation, including municipalities and civil organisations, enabling stakeholders to provide proposals and feedback on the regional development strategy.

Conference on Sustainability (COS) 2025

Researchers from five continents, 12 countries and over 100 experts attended Széchenyi István University’s third Conference on Sustainability (10–12 November, 2025), presenting 102 papers across nine sections on industrial and agricultural sustainability, corporate responsibility, circular economy, sustainable energy and climate resilience, urban development, infrastructure and transport. The program can be accessed HERE.

The International Scientific Committee is represented by the experts in their field, including international universities, research institutions, as well as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

2025 World Water Day programme

As part of the 2025 World Water Day programme, Széchenyi István University actively facilitated cross-sectoral dialogue on sustainable water management by hosting and supporting a series of events involving public authorities, industry, professional associations, educational institutions, and community stakeholders. The University provided the venue for a World Water Day conference jointly organised by the Hungarian Hydrological Society and the Hungarian Academy of Sciences Regional Committee, bringing together experts and practitioners to discuss water-related challenges and solutions.

The wider programme involved collaboration between the University, the North Transdanubian Water Directorate, Pannon-Víz Ltd., the Municipality of Győr, secondary schools, kindergartens, and professional organisations. Through public lectures, educational outreach activities, commemorative events, and awareness-raising programmes, the initiative created a platform for dialogue and knowledge exchange among academia, government bodies, utility providers, educational institutions, and civil society.

“The Water We Wanted” Conference series

Széchenyi István University actively initiates and hosts cross-sectoral dialogue on sustainable development through its annual “The Water We Wanted” conference series. In 2025, the fourth edition of the conference, organised jointly by the University and the Győr-Moson-Sopron County Chamber of Commerce and Industry, brought together representatives from academia, business, sports organisations, and regional development stakeholders to discuss future opportunities related to water resources in the city and region.

Held under the theme “On New Waves”, the conference explored development opportunities connected to Győr’s water assets from the perspectives of sport, economic development, and sustainability. The event provided a platform for knowledge exchange and strategic dialogue between higher education, industry, public stakeholders, and community organisations on how water-related resources can contribute to sustainable regional growth.