Festive welcome to the new students at the University of Tübingen!

Festive welcome to the new students at the University of Tübingen!

On October 17, 2025, the ceremonial opening of the winter semester took place at the University of Tübingen as part of the “Dies Universitatis” event. Under the motto “Celebrating Teaching”, the university welcomed around 5,100 new students, including a large number of international students. Rector Professor Dr. Dr. h.c. (Dōshisha) Karla Pollmann introduced the university and its diverse offerings and emphasized the importance of innovative teaching formats as well as critical thinking and scientific work. The university's excellence strategy, which relies on the principles of research, relevance and responsibility, was particularly highlighted.

Various prizes were also awarded to celebrate the day. The 2025 teaching award went to the social science seminar “Gender and Diversity in the Beginnings of Empirical Social Research”, led by Professor Ursula Offenberger and theater teacher Dorothee Engbers. In this project, a play was developed that deals with topics such as racism and sexism in social research. The special prize for student engagement was awarded to the MEDI Paten project. This project, initiated by medical students, aims to provide emotional support to children with cancer.

Prizes and awards

Another highlight of the event was the awarding of the DAAD Prize to Mohammed Babiker, a doctoral student in archaeobotany. This prize has been awarded to international students for outstanding academic achievements and social commitment for more than ten years. Endowed with 1,000 euros, the DAAD Prize is intended to recognize international students and help them represent faces and stories in Germany. Babiker is not only committed to intercultural exchange, but is also a future partner for Germany in business, politics and science.

The award ceremony is part of the University of Tübingen's efforts to create a positive and supportive environment for international students through its programs and initiatives. In the context of the German higher education system, it should be emphasized that universities are responsible for academic education, while student unions are responsible for the social and economic infrastructure. There are 57 student unions in Germany that have developed many offers for international students, including the provision of dormitory accommodation and cultural activities. Such offers are crucial in making everyday study life easier for foreign students.

Student engagement

The MEDI Paten project, which received the special award for student commitment, has developed into a professionally organized team and is planning further initiatives, such as the “CuddleBuddys” project for neonatology and a running event to generate donations. There are also efforts for a partner project in Tanzania. Such measures show how closely studying and social engagement overlap at the University of Tübingen and how students actively contribute to improving the quality of life of others.

Through these diverse activities and awards, the University of Tübingen reaffirms its commitment to excellent teaching and an integrative, supportive environment for all students. Further information about the prices and the projects involved can be requested from the university's university communications department.