SDG 17 - Partnerships for the Goals

Last modified: 24. November 2025

1.2.    Cross sectoral dialogue about SDGs

In 2024, MATE University hosted a series of impactful conferences, events and faires, and that fostered cross-sectoral dialogue on pressing sustainability and developmental issues. Recognizing the vital role that partnerships play in achieving transformative change, MATE invited and engaged NGO representatives, government agencies, and industry experts to discuss and strategize on sustainable development, ensuring diverse perspectives were integrated into these conversations. Their active participation reflects MATE’s commitment to building collaborative networks that drive actionable progress on shared goals.

Conferences

• XIV. Flora Conference - MATE in Gödöllő hosted, bringing together 157 participants from universities, research institutes, national parks, and NGOs. The event featured presentations on taxonomy, plant ecology, conservation, and landscape studies, along with forums on ecological legislation and citizen science, providing a key platform for knowledge exchange, networking. ​​​​​
• World Processing Tomato Congress - he most recent scientific, technological, and market developments in the global processing tomato industry, bringing together researchers, producers, and industry stakeholders to address current challenges and future opportunities. 
• Hungarian Landscape Ecology Conference - brought together experts from disciplines including ecology, agronomy, geography, forestry, and planning to explore landscape-scale solutions aligned with the strategic goals of the European Green Deal. 
• 7th International Scientific Conference on Water (ISCW 2024) – An international dialogue on water-related challenges, attracting experts and policy-makers globally. 
• Soil Science Conference - organized by the Hungarian Soil Science Society in collaboration with MATE gathers soil researchers from across Hungary for discussion, poster sessions, fieldwork, and direct engagement with real soil profiles.
• János Lippay - Imre Ormos - Károly Vas Scientific Meeting – This is an academic event at the university with a broad focus, where cross-sector collaboration aimed to address agricultural and environmental challenges. 
• GBI Days 2024 – A platform for genetic and environmental research with significant contributions from governmental and environmental NGOs. 

Other Events

• XXXI. Alföldi Animal Husbandry Days in Hódmezővásárhely brought together Hungary’s livestock sectors through public show judging, breeders’ auctions, and the presentation of eight major animal industries. The event also served as a key professional meeting point, uniting experts and suppliers from reproduction biology, animal health, housing technology, feed production, and agricultural inputs. 
• University Innovation Week – This annual event aims to strengthen the relationship between academia, industry, and government, promoting cross-sector collaboration for a more sustainable future. It features interactive sessions, discussions, and presentations that encourage dialogue between experts and participants from diverse fields.
• Kaposvár Animal Husbandry University Days - From 27 to 29 September 2024, MATE and its partners hosted it, offering professional conferences, demonstrations, and interactive programmes for visitors of all ages. The event highlighted MATE’s key research and training areas while celebrating Hungary’s agricultural and equestrian traditions. 
• Horticultural days and fairs - MATE’s Budai Campus hosted the Autumn Horticultural Days from October 11 to 13, 2024, an event that offered something for both plant enthusiasts and visitors interested in diverse programs and exhibitions. Horticultural companies showcased their products, including annual flower seedlings, flower bulbs, perennial ornamental plants, cacti, orchids, and chrysanthemums. Culinary experiences were also featured, with visitors able to taste and purchase local honey, jams, and other delicacies. 
• Kaposvár One Health Day – this is an annual event organized by MATE's Institute of Physiology and Nutrition. It aligns with the "One Health" concept, highlighting the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. This conference engages cross-sectoral dialogue among academics, NGOs, and government representatives, focusing on challenges like antimicrobial resistance, food safety, and environmental issues. By fostering collaboration across sectors, it promotes a holistic approach to health and sustainability, making it an essential platform for advancing SDGs related to health and environmental policies. 
• AgroLight Forum – MATE’s Buda Campus hosted the 2nd AgroLight Forum, organized by the Hungarian Electrotechnical Association – Lighting Technology Society. The event showcased innovative applications of lighting in plant cultivation, livestock production, and the food industry, fostering knowledge exchange between researchers, industry professionals and NGOs. 
• Green University Days is MATE’s event promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility. In collaboration with NGOs and government partners, it features workshops, discussions, and initiatives on green technology and sustainable practices. The event fosters cross-sectoral exchange, linking academic research with practical environmental solutions and policies.