Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE) and other Hungarian universities are now establishing a new master’s degree in artificial intelligence, which could be a significant milestone in the development of Hungarian higher education and the technology sector. The aim of the training is to respond to growing market demands and ensure the supply of the right number and quality of AI professionals.

The challenge of the shortage of professionals

According to Tamás Kozsik, Dean of ELTE, anyone who understands artificial intelligence will definitely find a job. This statement reflects the current market situation, where there is a huge demand for qualified AI professionals, while the supply is far below this.

The demand for professionals working in the field of artificial intelligence is growing exponentially, not only in Hungary, but also worldwide. From technology companies to traditional industries, all sectors are looking for professionals who can develop and implement AI solutions.

Features of the new master’s program

The master’s program in artificial intelligence, launched by ELTE and its partners, offers comprehensive training in the most important aspects of the field. The training is expected to cover the areas of machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, computer vision and other key AI technologies.

The program uses a practice-oriented approach, ensuring that students not only acquire theoretical knowledge, but also work on real-world projects. This is especially important in the field of AI, where practical experience is at least as valuable as theoretical foundations.

Industrial collaborations

The key to the success of university education is close cooperation with industrial partners. ELTE has already established an exemplary cooperation with Bosch, within the framework of which Hungary’s first industrial department of artificial intelligence was established in 2020.

This cooperation ensures that the content of the training is in line with market needs and that students acquire skills that are truly needed in the labor market. The involvement of industrial partners allows students to work on real projects during their studies.

Impact on the SME sector

Training new AI professionals can be particularly important for the Hungarian SME sector. Small and medium-sized enterprises often do not have the resources to employ their own AI professionals, but the growing supply of professionals can also enable them to apply AI technologies.

Qualified AI professionals can help SMEs in digitalization processes, automation and the development of innovative solutions. This can contribute to increasing the competitiveness of the Hungarian SME sector and economic growth.

International competitiveness

The development of training in the field of artificial intelligence is crucial for Hungary’s international competitiveness. AI technologies are increasingly determining economic competition, and those countries that are able to train the appropriate number and quality of professionals will be successful.

The development of AI training in Hungarian higher education can contribute to Hungary becoming a regional hub in the field of artificial intelligence. This could attract international investments and technology companies.

Research and development

The new master’s degree will not only create training opportunities, but also research opportunities. Cooperation between universities and industrial partners can facilitate the development of innovative AI solutions that can contribute to the modernization of the Hungarian economy.

Research projects will give students the opportunity to get acquainted with the latest technologies and develop their own innovations. This will not only improve the quality of training, but also contribute to the development of the Hungarian AI ecosystem.

Digitalization strategy

The training of AI specialists fits into Hungary’s digitalization strategy. The government pays special attention to the development of digital competencies and supporting technological innovation. The new master’s degree can contribute to achieving these goals.

Digitalization affects all sectors, from public administration to healthcare to agriculture. The training of AI specialists can ensure that Hungary is able to exploit the opportunities offered by digitalization.

Startup Ecosystem

The presence of qualified AI professionals can also stimulate the development of the startup ecosystem. An increasing number of AI-based startups are being launched in Hungary, developing innovative solutions in various fields. The right supply of professionals is key to the success of these companies.

Startup companies are often at the forefront of applying the latest technologies and play a significant role in spreading innovation. Training AI professionals can contribute to strengthening the Hungarian startup ecosystem.

Social Impact

Artificial intelligence has not only economic but also social impacts. The application of AI technologies can change the way we work, create new opportunities, but also pose challenges. Properly trained professionals can help us to steer these changes in a positive direction.

The responsibility of AI professionals is not only to develop technology, but also to take into account ethical aspects. During training, an important emphasis should be placed on the ethics of AI and social responsibility.

Future prospects

The launch of the AI master’s program at ELTE is only the beginning of a longer process. It is expected that other universities will launch similar programs, and the training offer will continue to expand. This could contribute to Hungary taking a leading role in the region in the field of AI education.

Due to the rapid development of technology, training programs must also constantly adapt. Universities must maintain close ties with industry to ensure the relevance and quality of training.

Training AI professionals is not just a technological issue, but a strategic investment in Hungary’s future. Ensuring the right supply of professionals is crucial for economic growth and international competitiveness.

Source: Index.hu, ELTE Faculty of Informatics