Practical-focused faculty members receive accolades in the educational field

German Universities of Applied Sciences Embrace International Collaboration and Research Focus

Germany's Universities of Applied Sciences (HAW) are stepping up their game in the realm of academic exchange and research, as evidenced by a series of recent initiatives.

The University of Applied Sciences and Economics Berlin is spearheading this charge with the "Global Women in Engineering and IT" project, aiming to promote academic exchange for women. This project includes partnerships with Australian universities, although the specific name of the Australian partner university has yet to be disclosed.

HAWs have long been renowned for their practical orientation, and this focus is evident in their collaborative efforts. For instance, the Niederrhein University of Applied Sciences has developed the "Smart Textiles" bachelor program in conjunction with partner universities in Belgium, Finland, Sweden, and Indonesia.

International exchange is not limited to academic collaborations. Scotland and Jordan have recently been in the spotlight of HAW's international exchange, supported by the German Research Foundation (DFG). Furthermore, the Neu-Ulm University of Applied Sciences has created an international startup network, underscoring the commitment of HAWs to fostering innovation and enterprise.

The shift towards research is evident in the latest funding requests from HAWs for the "Research in HAW" program. Topics covered include health sciences, neurotechnologies, and climate adaptations in rural areas. Research is indeed gaining importance in HAWs, as underscored by Research Minister Dorothee Bär, who, upon assuming office in May 2025, emphasized the need for HAWs to better leverage their strengths in applied research.

The DFG also supports an initiative for the exchange of German HAW researchers with colleagues from Central Asia, particularly Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. The focus areas of this exchange initiative include digitization, sustainable urban development, renewable energies, and resource management.

Programs like "Research in HAW" are to be expanded, reflecting the growing emphasis on research within HAWs. For more than five years, the HAW.International program of the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) has been promoting the extensive networking of universities of applied sciences, furthering the cause of international collaboration.

Dual courses at HAWs combine academic studies with vocational training in companies, ensuring that students are well-prepared for professional activities. This practical approach, coupled with the increasing focus on research, positions HAWs well for the future.

A conference held in May 2025 in Dortmund highlighted the diversity of international partnerships among HAWs, underscoring the university system's commitment to global collaboration and innovation. The future looks bright for Germany's Universities of Applied Sciences as they continue to forge ahead in the realms of research and internationalization.