Universities in crisis mode: International workshop in Potsdam opens!

Universities in crisis mode: International workshop in Potsdam opens!

The international LEADx community is currently meeting at the University of Potsdam to discuss strategies for crisis management in universities. A workshop began on October 8, 2025 that addresses the question of how educational institutions can be prepared for current and future crises. This event is part of an international leadership program designed specifically for vice presidents and women in similar leadership positions from universities in Latin America, sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia.

The workshop is organized by the Center for Quality Development in Teaching and Study, the Coordination Office for Equal Opportunities, the Potsdam Graduate School and the International Office of the University of Potsdam. Under the direction of Dr. Britta van Kempen, Vice President for Teaching, Studies and Europe, the participants discuss key topics such as leadership, governance and the cultural challenges in higher education.

Challenges and resilience

Universities today face a variety of uncertainties. Political upheavals, economic shocks, natural disasters and internal governance challenges not only test the resilience of institutions, but also their ability to uphold core values ​​such as teaching, research and social engagement. Such challenges require an adaptive and cooperative leadership style, which will be discussed intensively during the workshop week by participants from 25 universities in 16 countries.

A significant part of the program will take place on October 9th, when Prof. Dr. Ganna Tolstanova gives a lecture in English. The Vice Rector for Research and Professor of Biochemistry at Taras Shevchenko University of Kyiv will provide valuable insight into how universities can maintain their academic integrity in uncertain times. She brings over two decades of research and leadership experience and is also a member of national advisory boards. As the founder of the NGO Professional Network for Research and HEIs Managers of Ukraine, she is one of the experts in this field.

Network and collaboration

After the lecture, participants are invited to an informal networking reception, which is intended to promote exchange and networking between leaders from the higher education sector. In order to take part in the lecture, registration is required.

The DIES LEADx program, which the University of Potsdam runs as part of the “Dialogue on Innovative Higher Education Strategies” (DIES), is carried out in partnership with a regional advisory board made up of university organizations in the target regions. It is coordinated by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and the University Rectors' Conference (HRK) and receives funding from the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). This shows how important international cooperation and interdisciplinary exchange are for the future of higher education.

Overall, the workshop will provide a platform to illuminate the challenges and opportunities in higher education and to develop innovative solutions.