From June 30 to July 4, 2025, employees of the Human Resources Department of Fire University – Stanisława Modzelewska and Monika Parada – had the opportunity to participate in a mobility program under Erasmus+ at one of the partner institutions, The Ludovika – University of Public Service (UPS) in Budapest, Hungary. The purpose of the trip was to exchange experiences and information related to administrative work, to learn about the university’s structure and infrastructure, and, above all, to enhance professional and language qualifications.
The Ludovika – University of Public Service (UPS) has an interesting and rich history. The Hungarian National Assembly decided to establish the Royal Hungarian Ludovika Military Academy based on Act VII of 1808. Maria Ludwika Beatrix Habsburg-Este donated 50,000 Hungarian forints (which today is approximately 670,000–830,000 euros) to the project. This contribution was honored by naming the institution the Ludovika Academy. The idea of training military officers in the Hungarian language united the entire nation, resulting in a wave of public donations. In total, 995,100 Hungarian forints (approximately 13 million euros today) were raised for this cause. The names of 237 donors were listed in a separate legal act.
The Ludovika – University of Public Service (UPS) was established in 2012 as the result of a merger between three separate higher education institutions. As a result, it offers the possibility to educate students in the main fields of public service: military officers, law enforcement officers, and public administration officials. Importantly, it is the only such institution in Hungary.
The university has a similar scientific and educational profile to Fire University, which enabled a fruitful exchange of experiences. Students can pursue bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across five different faculties. A strong emphasis is placed on practical courses and a holistic approach to safety.
A significant advantage of the university is its modern infrastructure – dormitories, a swimming pool, a shooting range, sports fields, lecture halls, student relaxation and study areas, and much more. Moreover, most of the university buildings are located in a city park, which allows students to spend breaks in the greenery and fresh air.
Beyond the time spent exchanging experiences at the university, the trip was also an excellent opportunity to get to know Hungarian culture, traditions, daily life, and explore the beautiful and historic city of Budapest. Without a doubt, the Erasmus+ mobility program opens up new perspectives, facilitates international connections, and strengthens partnerships with other universities. The trip also provided a great opportunity to break through language barriers, broaden horizons, gain new experiences, and acquire skills that are invaluable in both professional and private life.
