The 24th EDUCATIO International Education Expo took place between 11-13 January, once again hosted by Hungexpo in a spacious but surprisingly lively space.
It was the first time in my life that I had attended the event, so I was genuinely surprised by the diversity of the event. At the PTE Support Services stand, we experienced the most active three days in recent years. Whether this is good or worrying, I cannot say, but the increase in the number of students with learning disabilities and the uncertainty surrounding this as a high school graduate is certainly something to think about. However, the increase in the number of people interested in learning disabilities implies openness, and the difficulties are experienced as a problem to be solved rather than a stigma.
It was also good to see that young people were curious to try out the sensory tools, the most popular of which were the ageing simulator and the wheelchair. We also managed to get the PTE's springy-stepping tiger to wheel around, although he chose to push rather than use his paw.
During the day, everyone kept up the pace, from the ponies of the University of Veterinary Medicine to the spectacular helicopter of the Ludovika Academy. The PTE Brass Band gave the Cheerleaders a hit, the youngsters from the National University of Public Service were ready to handcuff you, and even the robot dog from the University of Óbuda saluted. I think every visitor could find what they were looking for.
As the exhibition drew to a close in the late afternoon, it was a different story: busy students were playing skateboarding and stress balls were flying. All in all, a lively, festival-like atmosphere set the scene for those considering further study.
At least we'll have more like this next year!
- András Olessák -