International outlook

Internationalisation contributes to democracy, openness to the world, tolerance and an understanding of other cultures – values to which Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences is actively committed. This includes the participation of students and staff in global exchanges, strengthening transformation processes to tackle global challenges such as climate change, and collaborations to further develop teaching, research and knowledge transfer – particularly with partner universities in the Global South – as well as activities in the field of science diplomacy. Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences is also committed to transformation at local, regional, national and, in the long term, international levels. The university actively addresses issues of cooperation and exchange with partners in countries where democracy and human rights are being curtailed, advocates maintaining dialogue whilst taking a clear stance on democracy and human rights, develops clear criteria for maintaining or terminating such partnerships, and is expanding its expertise in the field of science diplomacy and capacity building.

The HSRW sees itself as an inclusive organisation with an above-average proportion of international members. Values such as democracy, internationalism and fruitful exchange between academic cultures, genders, political views, worldviews and religious beliefs are lived out, practised and embodied on a daily basis across the entire organisation, including teaching and research. Fostering awareness of and appreciation for diversity among students and staff, as well as an active approach to academic integration, are essential components of our strategy. They serve the democratic university culture to which the HSRW is committed.

In doing so, the individual needs and backgrounds of students are taken into account in teaching and research. To facilitate international encounters, the university provides a space for social and cultural exchange, for example as part of Anti-Discrimination Weeks. Events such as these, along with other support services, promote integration within the university.

In total, over 120 different countries are represented at Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences. The governing bodies and student representative bodies have an international membership and, where possible, operate bilingually – in both academic and administrative areas.

However, internationality is not an end in itself, but rather an opportunity for the university to prepare students even better for the challenges of globally interconnected societies, the international academic world and the global labour market. The latter is also extremely valuable for regional businesses: highly qualified international graduates with a sense of global responsibility are able to contribute to the worldwide trends that are transforming both societies and our understanding of sustainability, and help the region to remain competitive in the long term.