University of Theatre and Film Arts faces leadership overhaul and criticism

Actor György Cserhalmi has issued a sharp public criticism directed at Ervin Nagy, a state secretary responsible for culture, regarding recent developments at the University of Theatre and Film Arts (SZFE). In an open message published on Színház Online, Cserhalmi compared the current measures affecting the cultural sector to the “parachute landing” (ejtőernyőzés) tactics used during the Antall administration.

The controversy follows significant leadership and structural changes at the university. Rector Enikő Sipos announced she is initiating negotiations to end her term. Simultaneously, the Minister of Education appointed a new board of trustees for the foundation operating the university. This new board includes film theorist András Bálint Kovács as president, replacing Attila Vidnyánszky.

Critics and faculty members have raised concerns regarding the legitimacy of the selection process, noting that several new board members were candidates suggested by a senate that many professionals consider illegitimate. The restructuring has been characterized by some as a political takeover of the institution.