DAAD strengthens German universities’ resilience in global academic cooperation with new KIWi knowledge security measures

DAAD strengthens German universities’ resilience in global academic cooperation with new KIWi knowledge security measures

(IN BRIEF) DAAD, through its Centre for International Academic Cooperation (KIWi), has expanded its knowledge security services with the introduction of a new checklist designed to help universities assess risks in international partnerships. The tool covers financing, intellectual property, export control, and ethics, and serves as both a self-assessment guide and a framework for institutional review. DAAD President Prof. Dr. Joybrato Mukherjee stressed that the initiative responds to current geopolitical challenges and the Science Council’s recommendations for strengthening knowledge security in Germany. Alongside the checklist, KIWi will develop a digital platform with training materials and case studies, and expand on-site seminars to support universities in implementing risk-conscious cooperation structures.

(PRESS RELEASE) BONN, 8-Sep-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is intensifying its efforts to strengthen knowledge security in international academic cooperation. Through its Centre for International Academic Cooperation (KIWi), DAAD has introduced a new Knowledge Security Checklist, offering universities and researchers a structured method for identifying potential risks in cross-border projects. The launch marks the beginning of a broader knowledge security platform that will be rolled out in the coming months.

DAAD President Prof. Dr. Joybrato Mukherjee underlined the importance of the initiative: “At a time when geopolitical developments are reshaping the framework for scientific collaboration, German universities need tools that help them navigate both opportunities and risks. With KIWi’s checklist, we provide practical support that reflects the latest recommendations of the Science Council, while also reinforcing our long-term commitment to secure and responsible cooperation.”

The checklist addresses areas such as funding sources, export controls, use of research results, intellectual property, and ethics. It is intended not only as a guide for self-assessment but also as a foundation for structured review and coordination processes within institutions. Developed in consultation with DAAD member universities, it reflects KIWi’s longstanding experience in advising on international cooperation.

In parallel with the checklist, KIWi is preparing a digital knowledge security platform that will include explanatory materials, best-practice case studies, and visual resources. Universities will also have access to tailored seminars and on-site advisory services, helping them to set up institutional risk management structures. With these measures, KIWi is strengthening Germany’s higher education sector in developing resilient approaches to global scientific collaboration.

Established in 2019 at the recommendation of the German Council of Science and Humanities, KIWi acts as a hub for expertise on international academic cooperation and as a bridge between academia and policy. Earlier this year, a US advisory centre was added to its portfolio to support German institutions with insights into the rapidly changing higher education environment in the United States.

Background KIWi

The DAAD Centre for International Academic Cooperation (KIWi) was founded in 2019 on the recommendation of the German Council of Science and Humanities. It supports universities and scientists in all matters relating to international academic cooperation, promotes dialogue between science and politics, and pools expertise from the global DAAD network. Most recently, in July 2025, a US advisory centre was set up within KIWi to advise German universities, scientists and students on developments in the USA.
KIWi is funded by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space.

Media Contacts:

Dr Sven Werkmeister
Director of Strategy
DAAD – German Academic Exchange Service
+49 228 882-204
werkmeisterdaad.de

Michael Flacke
Head of Press Office / Press Officer – SB03
DAAD – German Academic Exchange Service
+49 228 882-454
presseatdaad.de

SOURCE: DAAD