On 7 May 2026, the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE) hosted its 5th Jubilee International Dinner, bringing together hundreds of Hungarian and international students, diplomats, university staff, and guests for an evening celebrating cultural diversity, gastronomy, music, and community.

This year’s edition was the biggest and most colourful in the event’s history, surpassing all previous years in both participation and programme diversity. International students formed chef teams representing their home countries and worked together to prepare and present their national specialities. Altogether, 29 competing countries introduced 74 traditional dishes and beverages across five categories: starter, soup, main dish, dessert, and beverage.

Evaluating intricate dishes

The international jury faced a particularly difficult task while evaluating the dishes, that were judged based on such aspects as appearance, texture; smell, character; flavour, quality and overall taste experience; as well as the teams’ overall presentation, serving style, and effort invested in their table displays.

Alongside the culinary experiences, the audience also enjoyed a vibrant intercultural stage programme featuring performances by MATE Singers – university choir, traditional dances and songs from Ecuador, India, Laos, Syria, China, Bangladesh, Cape Verde, and many other countries. The Hungarian folk dance house and interactive performances encouraged guests to actively join the celebration, creating a truly welcoming international atmosphere.

One of the highlights of the evening was the E³UDRES² Science Pub Quiz, organized as a parallel programme during the dinner. Around 50 small international student teams competed in a lively Kahoot-based challenge, answering more than 50 questions related to life sciences, food sciences, sustainability, and E³UDRES² activities. Beyond entertainment, the event also served as an excellent opportunity to introduce, present, and promote E³UDRES² initiatives and strengthen awareness of the alliance among international students.

The event was honoured by representatives of 13 diplomatic missions and embassies, further highlighting MATE’s commitment to international cooperation and intercultural dialogue. More than a gastronomic festival, the International Dinner once again demonstrated how diversity, collaboration, and shared experiences can strengthen the sense of belonging within the international university community.