Rector Péter Sótonyi fulfilled a long-standing commitment on the occasion of the 50th EQUUS Days. The dormitory sports field — originally inaugurated 53 years ago — along with its surroundings and the historic wooden pavilion that hosts community events, has undergone a comprehensive renovation.
The 27×55-meter sports field is a key venue of the dormitory; however, in recent years, it has become nearly unusable. During the refurbishment, structural issues were corrected, the surface was replaced with a new rubber coating, and markings suitable for multiple sports were added. The renewed facility now supports running, volleyball, handball, football, and even foot tennis. In addition to replacing fences and nets, the lighting system was upgraded, and a new fitness area with a tartan surface was created nearby, featuring a multifunctional training unit for students.
The Rector emphasised that veterinary students need both physical endurance and opportunities for recreation to succeed in their profession, conditions that are now ensured in a modern environment.
In his speech, he also recalled the long-standing tradition of community events at the University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, particularly within the dormitory. Even during his student years, the former wooden pavilion hosted legendary community evenings, whose community-building impact remains a source of pride. He added that he has a strong personal connection to the dormitory, having spent a total of 11 years there — first as a student, later as a mentor. For this reason, he considers it a priority to provide a venue where students can organise their events with the same enthusiasm, but at a higher standard.
According to his own account, this renovation fulfils a promise he made 25 years ago. After the predecessor of the current wooden pavilion
burned down, he pledged that if he ever became rector, he would rebuild this community space. His goal has been to ensure that future generations of students can enjoy it just as much as he once did. The new structure, built on the original foundations, is a 40 m² wood-clad building housing a garden storage and a service/preparation area. It is surrounded by a 120 m² covered open-air space, ideal for outdoor gatherings.
The Rector also noted that, to improve usability, the open space can be covered during colder weather, allowing it to function as a four-season venue. He stressed that the strength of the veterinary community lies in shared traditions, respect for values, and the collective experience of these moments.
As part of the investment, the paved areas connecting the dormitory, the sports field, and the wooden pavilion have also been renewed.
The Rector expressed his special thanks to Gábor Kovács, Head of the Technical Department, and his team for their dedicated work in delivering the modernisation.
“I ask our students to take care of everything, to treat it as their own, and I wish them happiness during what will be some of the most beautiful years of their lives here in the dormitory,” the Rector concluded.
