Studying abroad? Try Hungary, envoy says

The Jakarta Post, Jakarta

The Hungarian ambassador has asked Indonesian parents who want their children to study abroad to consider his country.

Gyorgy Busztin told The Jakarta Post that Hungary had a number of fine universities that used English as the medium of teaching, at very competitive costs.

"For a refreshing change, please look beyond the horizon," the ambassador said.

"To find an economic solution without compromising academic values, please look at one of Europe's ambitious new democracies, with a very rich tradition of science: Hungary."

Every year, thousands of young Indonesians head abroad to study, either paid for by their wealthy parents, or funded by organizations, foundations, or learning institutions.

English-speaking countries like the United States, Australia and Britain rank among the most favorite destinations. Singapore, Malaysia, and Japan are also popular. France and Germany are among the non-English speaking countries many Indonesians go to.

Studying abroad has become a big business that many countries, often with the help of their respective embassies in Jakarta, organize annual fairs to tout their advantages.

Few, if any Indonesians, have considered Hungary or other Eastern European countries, as an option.

Busztin said it was time that Hungary, which he described as one of the dynamically growing, market-economy based democracies, be looked at.

"Located in the center of Europe, a melting pot of cultures, Hungary has traditionally been a crossroad and as such blended many traditions," he said.

"The major Hungarian universities all have full courses in English (medicine, dentistry, pharmacology, veterinary medicine, engineering etc)," he said, adding "Some offer post graduate courses in English as well."

Hungary's decision not to join the euro zone makes the costs of studying there relatively inexpensive for foreigners, he said.

Annual tuition fees range from US$5,900 to $10,000; monthly living costs, including accommodation, food and transportation, reach $600 a month. Health insurance costs $300 a year.

The ambassador recommends parents or prospective students to browse the website www.studyhungary.hu or write to College International Budapest at info@studyhungary.hu for further information.

"If you opt for Hungary, you will not regret it," he said.