This year, Széchenyi István University played an active role in the success of Sport Forum Hungary once again, at one of the region's most important sports conferences. In addition to its professional presentations, the institution also presented its health technology developments, mobility-related research and training. At the university's stand, visitors were able to see a car simulator, a mini ECG and even drone football.

Sport Forum Hungary, held at the Puskás Arena in Budapest, is the region's flagship sports conference, bringing together key players from the global sports scene. The event, now in its third edition, will address key issues of international sports cooperation, sports life and sports economy. This year's event looked at the lessons learned from the Paris Olympics and Paralympics and the European Football Championship, and the impact of the Games on the global sport industry and the extent to which it is embedded in society. The experts also paid close attention to aspects of recreational sport and healthy lifestyles.

At the stand of Széchenyi István University, the public could see sport-related innovations

Széchenyi István University is a participant in the programme every year, and this year again contributed to the success of the programme with its own stand and exciting presentations. "For our institution, sport in its many dimensions is extremely important. On the one hand, we offer a dual career model for elite athletes, so that they can combine their active careers with their studies and preparation for civil life. On the other hand, recreational sports and the promotion of a healthy lifestyle for students are also important", said Célia Szénássy, International Secretary of SZE and organiser of the University’s presentation.

She added that this area is also emphasised in the institution's research, which, alongside the scientific activities of the Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, is also reflected in significant health technology innovations. He said that the University also plays a key role in shaping the sustainable future of transport, and the stand was set up around these themes, where the University of Győr's Automotive Industry Research Centre and Digital Development Centre were also presented alongside the faculty. Visitors were able to see a car simulator, a racing kart, an engine block and a drone. They could also get familiar with drone football and several health technology innovations, including a University-developed eye examination device. Guests also enjoyed engaging presentations on health research delivered by Dr Zsolt Szelid, Head of the Department of Sports Medicine and Digital Health Sciences, a sports cardiologist, and Chairman of the Medical Committee of the Hungarian Football Association. He also presented a mini ECG and a heart rate monitor.

Many people have tried the university car simulator

During the event, Dr Barnabás Kovács, Programme Director of Széchenyi University’s Sports Diplomacy programme, gave a presentation on the unique sports diplomacy advisor programme, which offers a special learning opportunity for sports professionals representing various organisations of the sector at national and international level. The practical programme includes an annual study trip to Barcelona. The course has graduated personalities such as Emese Szász, Olympic champion in the duathlon.

The institution also participated in professional roundtable discussions, where Martin Pap, head of the AI Development Group at the Digital Development Centre, spoke about the role of artificial intelligence in sports, while Dr Erzsébet Stephens-Sarlós, associate professor at the Faculty of Health and Sports Sciences presented the effects of motivation, mental health, and nutrition at the event.