There is a reason we are drawn to real-life stories about hardship, perseverance, new beginnings and success. Stories about people who start with very little, keep going despite the obstacles, and eventually find their place in life. Zoltán Orsós’s story is one of them. Coming from a modest background, he built a stable life for himself, helped along the way not only by determination, but also by a well-timed opportunity through the “Increasing Opportunities in Public Services” HRDOP Plus Pillar programme.
Zoltán was born as the seventh child in a low-income family. Despite the difficult circumstances, his parents did everything they could for their children, and Zoltán learned early on that he would have to work especially hard to achieve his goals. After primary school, he started working while continuing his studies and eventually completed his secondary school leaving examination. Encouraged by his former class teacher, he later chose to train as an adult care nurse. He began an independent life in Szekszárd, while continuing to support and stay close to his family.
Later, almost like a turning point in a story, Zoltán’s professional skills, Szekszárd Hospital and the “Increasing Opportunities” programme came together at exactly the right time. What followed was a genuine opportunity. Today, Zoltán works as an intensive care nurse at Szekszárd Hospital and speaks about his work as a vocation in which he has truly found his place.
At the hospital, he found more than a job. He became part of a community where his knowledge, attitude and everyday work are recognised and valued. His story shows how the right employment opportunity, supported in the right way, can gradually become a lifelong profession.
The “Increasing Opportunities in Public Services” scheme was created to open doors for people facing similar challenges. It offers employment combined with training to people who are disadvantaged in the labour market and have a low level of formal education, with a particular focus on Roma women. Participants can gain qualifications and work experience in the social care, healthcare and public education sectors.
Implemented under HRDOP Plus during the 2021–2027 EU funding period, the programme has a budget of around HUF 27 billion. It is one of Hungary’s designated Pillar projects, or operations of strategic importance. These projects have a key role in achieving development policy objectives, ensuring the successful implementation of the relevant operational programme, and supporting the effective and transparent use of EU funding.
One of the programme’s key features is that participants do not have to spend months preparing before entering employment. They start work immediately and, after completing their probationary period, begin the required training alongside their job.
The programme provides 16 months of supported employment, followed by a further eight months of compulsory continued employment. Throughout the process, mentors help participants settle into the workplace, continue their studies and develop effective workplace communication.
In this way, the programme offers work experience, professional development and a more secure outlook for the future. At the same time, it also helps address labour shortages in essential public services.
It is perhaps no coincidence that Zoltán’s story has already been viewed more than 8,000 times on the social media page of the Directorate-General for Creating Social Opportunities. His experience is a reminder that a life does not always change because of one dramatic turning point. Sometimes, what makes the difference is a supportive environment, determination, the right opportunity at the right time — and someone who is ready to make the most of it.
The story of Zoltán Orsós, intensive care nurse, can be downloaded via this link.
