On 4 November 2025, Semmelweis University hosted the official inauguration of the World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre for Healthy Ageing. The designation recognises the university’s contribution to research, education and international cooperation in the field of healthy ageing.

The certificate of designation was presented by Dr. Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, to Prof. Dr. Béla Merkely, Rector of Semmelweis University, during a ceremony attended by university leaders and representatives of the international public health community.

Among the distinguished attendees was Prof. Dr. Balázs Győrffy, whose participation highlighted the importance of scientific collaboration and interdisciplinary connections.

Led by Prof. Dr. Zoltán Ungvári and Prof. Dr. Róza Ádány, the Collaborating Centre will contribute to international efforts to promote healthy ageing through research, knowledge sharing and cooperation with public health partners.

The initiative addresses a major global challenge: enabling people to live not only longer lives, but also more years in good health. Through collaboration between academic institutions, public health experts and international organisations, the Centre aims to support evidence-based approaches to healthy ageing.

The inauguration marks an important milestone in international public health cooperation and provides a platform for further scientific exchange and collaborative initiatives.

Source: Semmelweis University – Department of Bioinformatics