Oldenburg delegation strengthens international university partnerships!

Oldenburg delegation strengthens international university partnerships!

The Oldenburg delegation's visit to Nelson Mandela University in Gqeberha was more than just a trip; it was a return to established connections. University President Prof. Dr. Ralph Bruder described the feeling of returning to Mandela University as “like coming home.” This statement illustrates the more than 27 years of cooperation between the two universities, which is to be consolidated more intensively on August 18, 2025 UOL reported.

The Oldenburg delegation is made up of several important personalities, including Prof. Dr. Katharina Al-Shamery, the Vice President for International Affairs, and Prof. Dr. Karsten Speck, who acts as Oldenburg ambassador for Mandela University. Jenka Schmidt and Roman Behrens from the International Office are also part of the group.

Cooperation goals and program

As part of the visit, an extensive program took place, which included a board meeting as well as visits and discussions with researchers from the Energy Research Group and the Institute for Coastal and Marine Research. The aim is to intensify the cooperation between the University of Oldenburg, the University of Bremen and Mandela University. In addition, Oldenburg and Bremen are preparing an application for an excellence network as part of the nationwide excellence strategy, in which Mandela University will also be involved. From 2026, Mandela University will also be associated with the Ocean Floor Cluster of Excellence.

A new collaboration roadmap was adopted in 2023 to mark the partnership's 25th anniversary. This roadmap focuses on several areas, such as education, lifelong learning, sustainable and marine research, and health sciences. The priorities are intended to increase the quality and reach of scientists and students at both institutions.

International strategies and partnerships

Mandela University's internationalization strategy aims to improve the institution's global competitiveness. It prioritizes the African continent, but is also concerned with expanding relationships in previously neglected regions, especially in Asia and South America. The goals include, among other things, the expansion of exchange programs for students and academic staff as well as the establishment of strategic networks to promote cooperative research projects Nelson Mandela University.

In Germany, the internationalization of universities is also crucial. In 2023, there were a total of 18,153 international university collaborations between 312 universities, an indication of the increasing importance of global networks for education and research. The BMFTR promotes such international collaborations in order to strengthen the networking of German universities and increase the attractiveness of Germany as a science location.

The programs include, among other things, structured student exchange programs and international study partnerships that promote the mobility and integration of international students. Such initiatives are crucial to meeting the challenges of the global education landscape and creating new opportunities for future generations of academics.

Overall, it can be said that the research and teaching partnerships between Oldenburg, Bremen and Mandela University have not only local but also global relevance and make a decisive contribution to international networking and the promotion of young scientists.