More than 12,000 freshers are beginning their studies at the University of Debrecen as of this September. At the ceremonial senate meeting of the university on Sunday for marking the start of the new academic year, Minister for Education and Children’s Affairs Judit Lannert underlined that the future of Hungary is inseparable from the University of Debrecen, which serves as a model for other institutions of higher education in our country in so many respects. This year’s ceremony was also about honoring outstanding contributions to the reputation of our university. It was for the first time that titles of rector emeritus and decanus emeritus were conferred upon former leaders who have played a decisive part in the history of the institution.