Katalin Novák: we need more women in public life

We need more women in public life – said President of Hungary Katalin Novák at the graduation ceremony of the Female Public Leadership Programme, Grade 5, of Mathias Corvinus Collegium (MCC) at Sándor Palace in Budapest on Friday. 

The Head of State added that for this, three things are needed: the opportunities must be put in place, and public life must be made appealing for men and women, but also, it is necessary to demonstrate through our own personal examples that all this is possible and viable. 

The President of Hungary highlighted: the primary role of leaders is to offer help in overcoming the hurdles, so that women can line up at the start line already when potential candidates are sought for a position. It is necessary to help also in overcoming the difficulties arising from tensions between private and job-related decisions – she added. 

Katalin Novák handed over their diplomas to 21 students at the ceremony.
The Head of State emphasized: the goal is to make sure that no one has to give up either family or career, as doing both together is a viable option. 

She also said that in public life, respect is important. A public life career could be more appealing if mutual respect between the parties had a more emphatic role in this walk of life. Concerning personal example, Katalin Novák said she is aware of her responsibility as the first female President of Hungary. This could be an inspiration for many women, because now the highest office in public life in Hungary has become accessible for women. 

Zoltán Szalai, Director General of Mathias Corvinus Collegium highlighted: the example of Hungary’s first woman President is an inspiration to every graduate, because it showcases that it is possible to succeed in Hungary as well, that by conscious hard work and a professional attitude, it is possible to reach the highest and most important positions. 

Director General Szalai added: the Women's Leadership Development Programme was launched in 2018 with the aim of preparing women leaders to play an active role in the nation, the community and public affairs. 
The training is composed of modules on law, foreign policy, economy and psychology. Additionally. eloquent public speaking skills are also in focus – the Director General stressed.