The University of South Africa (Unisa) had the honour of hosting two esteemed academics from Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE) in Hungary as part of the Erasmus+ exchange mobility programme of the European Union.

The university first welcomed Prof István Szijártó, who visited from 19 March to 2 April 2026. He was followed by Dr Ádám Stempler, who visited from 14 to 25 April 2026.

This initiative, facilitated by Unisa’s Internationalisation and Partnerships Directorate in collaboration with the Department of History in the College of Human Sciences, underscores the university’s commitment to fostering global academic partnerships and enhancing educational exchange. The rich insights and diverse perspectives shared during their visit not only benefited Unisa's academic community, but also strengthened ties with international institutions.

From left: Siza Magubane, Deputy Director of Internationalisation and Partnerships, Dr Ádám Stempler, ELTE, and Dr Siphokazi Madida, Chair of the Department of History

During their two-week stay, Szijártó and Stempler participated in a series of enriching activities to deepen their understanding of South Africa's cultural and historical context. Their itinerary included visits to iconic national heritage sites such as the Union Buildings, Freedom Park, Kruger House, the Apartheid Museum, the Cradle of Humankind and the vibrant Soweto townships. These excursions provided them with a unique perspective on the complex historical narratives that shape contemporary South African society, offering them the opportunity to engage with local histories and communities.

Furthermore, Szijártó and Stempler facilitated online classes for Unisa students, enabling academic engagement and exchange that transcended geographical boundaries and enriching the learning experience for all participants.

Unisa’s ability to host distinguished academics such as Szijártó and Stempler further exemplifies its global strategy to promote comprehensive open and distance eLearning (CODeL). The university’s commitment to international academic exchange enhances its global footprint and fosters a dynamic learning environment that prepares students to thrive in an interconnected world. As Unisa continues to expand its international collaborations and partnerships, it remains dedicated to providing high-quality education that is accessible, inclusive and attuned to the needs of a diverse student body. Exchange grants, such as the Erasmus+ programme, are not only significant for individual participants but also play a crucial role in promoting internationalisation-at-home, enriching Unisa’s academic landscape and enhancing its global footprint. 

* By Godfrey Mahloko, Collaboration Officer, Directorate of Internationalisation and Partnerships