
Please briefly introduce your organization.
The University of Debrecen (UD) is one of Hungary’s leading research universities and a major innovation hub in Northeast Hungary. With a strong multidisciplinary profile, UD combines excellence in education, research, and industry collaboration. Its Faculty of Informatics hosts the Artificial Intelligence and Data Analysis Research Group, supported by advanced laboratories in high-performance computing, data science, network research, embedded systems, and virtual reality. In 2023, Hungary’s most powerful supercomputer was installed at UD, enabling large-scale simulations, AI model training, and complex data analytics that provide a unique foundation for international cooperation.
What is your organization’s role in the project? What unique contribution does it bring to the team?
UD plays an active role across several work packages. In WP3, it contributes to Cluster 1 (Digital Education and Skills) by developing AI and data science learning materials, delivering training activities, and supporting innovative approaches to digital skills development. In Cluster 2 (Public Administrations and Smart Cities), UD shares expertise in data-driven urban systems, digital health monitoring, and autonomous mobility. In Cluster 3 (Trusted AI and Data Technologies), the team develops practical approaches to explainable AI, healthcare decision support, and data quality assurance. UD also contributes to WP2 by engaging in policy dialogues on AI governance and digital education, and to WP5 by supporting dissemination and community building. With Hungary’s most powerful HPC infrastructure and strong academic–industry links, UD uniquely combines technical expertise, real-world use cases, and innovation capacity, bringing high added value to INPACE.
How do you think INPACE will contribute to the digital landscape in the EU and Asia?
INPACE creates opportunities for mutual learning and collaboration between the EU and the Indo-Pacific in key areas of digital transformation. From UD’s perspective, its value lies in developing and sharing AI and data science training modules with international partners, and in testing practical applications such as digital health, smart urban services, and trustworthy AI frameworks. These joint activities strengthen capacity building, accelerate the adoption of digital technologies, and support the exchange of best practices. INPACE will therefore help both regions to align educational, technological, and policy approaches in a way that delivers tangible benefits to society.
How can the EU and Asia strategically collaborate to forge impactful partnerships that foster innovation in the digital space on a global scale?
The EU and Asia can build impactful digital partnerships by aligning complementary strengths: Europe’s expertise in trusted AI, regulation, and research, and Asia’s dynamic innovation ecosystems and rapidly growing digital markets. INPACE provides a platform to co-create scalable and human-centric solutions. UD contributes by sharing its experience in AI-based healthcare, digital education, smart communities, and explainable AI frameworks. Joint pilot projects, industry–academia cooperation, and the development of industry-recognised certification programmes can build mutual trust and accelerate innovation. By investing in shared infrastructure, skills development, and policy dialogue, the EU and Asia can establish sustainable digital ecosystems with global relevance.