Seven scientists were honoured on thursday 15th December 2011 in the Upper House Hall of the Parliament. With the award the founders wanted to honour the hard work of scientists who tried to create abiding on the fields of technical-intellectual creations, engineering work, technological developments.
The prize-winners are Gábor Harsányi electrical engineer, Sándor Imre electrical engineer, László Jereb electrical engineer, Áron Losonczi licensed architect, János Matuz agrarian engineer, József Molnár electrical engineer and Gyula Simig chemical engineer. The Dennis Gabor-Lifetime Achievement Award went to Csaba Szántay chemical engineer.
In his ceremonial speech, László Kövér, Chairman of the Parliament, said: "A government in the 21st century has to understand the work of science, needs to ensure appropriate background... Innovation has to get bigger role in the Hungarian economic policy. Not only the researchers need supporters, the state also needs innovative technologies."
Miklós Réthelyi, Minister of National Resources said: "Everyone is listening to people, who are exploring the unknown ranges. We need to invest into the future. We have to encourage and inspire scientists to search and find new solutions. The Dennis Gabor Award gives young people strength and courage to follow the great predecessors. Today we honour scientists who are followers of the Dennis Gabor-lifework."