The Sustainability Flagship Programme provides a new operational framework for the university's sustainability transition as a tool for competitiveness and quality development: it connects and develops ELTE's existing knowledge, resources, and community along a shared, future-oriented goal.

The challenges of the 21st century—climate change, technological and economic transformation, social inequalities, and labor market changes—require systemic responses. In international higher education, sustainability has become a fundamental criterion of university operations, reinforced by student expectations as well as legal, quality assurance, and funding frameworks.

Although the concept of sustainability is widely used, the content is very different in each institution. According to ELTE’s interpretation, sustainability is a comprehensive approach that must prevail in every decision and at every operational level. Universities not only shape future professionals but also set an example through their operations—ELTE, with its complex approach, takes a pioneering role in this field.

The program is closely aligned with the university’s quality development strategy up to 2030. For the first time in the history of ELTE—and uniquely even at the international level—an institution-wide analysis based on artificial intelligence and sustainability criteria was prepared about the educational and research portfolio.

Analysis conducted along the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) highlighted that ELTE’s research covers a broad spectrum of sustainability areas, especially in health and wellbeing, climate and environment, as well as education and partnerships. According to the educational portfolio review, sustainability content is already present in more than 60% of courses. Mapping SDG connections also revealed that educational priorities partially coincide with research focuses, while new emphases appear as well, for example, in rule of law, public policy, and the operation of economic organizations.

Beyond education and research, the program extends to innovation, industry and social relations, as well as university operations and community building. As part of social sustainability, it treats equal opportunities as a special priority. In operations, it emphasizes energy modernization and accessibility. Both student, civil, and institutional actors actively participate in shaping attitudes.

The program’s aim is to harmonize and strengthen existing capacities, using data-driven planning and measurable indicators, with the active involvement of the university community. For ELTE, sustainability transition is not about adopting ready-made solutions, but rather about a shared process of thinking and learning.

The Sustainability Flagship Programme provides a new operational framework for the university's sustainability transition as a tool for competitiveness and quality development: it connects and develops ELTE's existing knowledge, resources, and community along a shared, future-oriented goal.