DAAD Urges Federal Government to Strengthen Internationalisation of German Universities and Science

DAAD Urges Federal Government to Strengthen Internationalisation of German Universities and Science

(IN BRIEF) The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is urging the new Federal Government to prioritize the internationalisation of Germany’s universities and research sectors to maintain competitiveness in a changing geopolitical environment. DAAD President Prof Dr Joybrato Mukherjee emphasized the importance of attracting international talent, expanding academic partnerships, and ensuring a welcoming environment for international students and scholars. The DAAD advocates for initiatives such as offering attractive scholarships, improving student support services, and fostering professional networks to integrate international students into the German labor market. Additionally, the DAAD calls for increased funding to support international scientific cooperation, which plays a crucial role in Germany’s innovative strength and global competitiveness.

(PRESS RELEASE) BONN, 19-Feb-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is urging the incoming Federal Government to prioritize the expansion of internationalisation in Germany’s higher education and research sectors. In a rapidly changing global landscape, Germany’s competitive edge and economic strength depend on attracting international talent, strengthening academic collaborations, and fostering a culture that is welcoming to international students and scholars.

Ahead of the Bundestag elections, DAAD President Prof Dr Joybrato Mukherjee, alongside member universities, called on politicians to adopt a clear strategy to internationalize German universities and the academic landscape. “In today’s geopolitically complex world, it is crucial for Germany to recruit top international talent as specialists and leaders while expanding global academic partnerships and research collaborations. A clear signal from the new federal government is needed: international students and researchers are valued, and their contributions are essential to our country’s growth,” said Mukherjee.

Germany’s higher education system is globally recognized for its excellence and appeal. With approximately 405,000 international students and nearly 75,000 international researchers currently in Germany, the country ranks highly for both international student enrollment and the number of international researchers. The DAAD emphasizes the importance of fully leveraging these strengths, particularly as 65% of international students plan to remain in Germany after graduation, contributing significantly to the nation’s economy.

To optimize this potential, the DAAD calls for several initiatives, including offering attractive scholarships for the best international students and doctoral candidates, improving support services during their studies, fostering better language integration, and establishing stronger professional connections to the German labor market. “Without targeted support and a welcoming environment, we cannot fully tap into the value international students bring,” added Mukherjee.

The changing geopolitical landscape has also prompted a shift in focus. While Germany’s strong ties with the U.S. and European Union remain crucial, new partnerships with rapidly developing scientific nations, such as India, are becoming increasingly important. The DAAD advocates for the creation of new funding models for collaboration with these emerging countries and calls for renewed support for established European partnerships. Additionally, the DAAD emphasizes the need for more guidance for universities looking to build international relationships.

In a time marked by global challenges such as climate change, energy transition, and social transformation, international scientific cooperation is more vital than ever. Mukherjee noted, “Science diplomacy plays a pivotal role in enhancing research excellence, strengthening networks, and contributing to geopolitical stability. The role of science in foreign and security policy cannot be overstated.”

To secure Germany’s future as a leading center of global scientific innovation, reliable and consistent funding is necessary. The DAAD advocates for a three percent annual increase in its basic funding to align with the Pact for Research and Innovation, ensuring that Germany continues to be a strong global player in science and innovation.

Media Contact:

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

SOURCE: DAAD