The guest speaker for the evening was Ralph Sina, a journalist and political correspondent, who gave an insightful account of the situation at US universities. In his talk, ‘Trump’s culture war against academic freedom and its implications for Germany’, he addressed the current political situation in the US, with a particular focus on events at universities. He reported that, during his visits to American universities, he had repeatedly heard how important exchange with Germany was and that, especially now, cooperation between higher education institutions must be nurtured.
Prof. Dr Oliver Locker-Grütjen, President of Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences, also emphasised in his welcome address how important universities are for a vibrant, resilient democracy: “Universities do not merely teach facts; they also promote open debate and critical thinking.” In this way, young people are prepared not only for their careers, but also for their role as responsible citizens. At universities, they learn to ask questions, to consider different perspectives and to take responsibility for society and the environment.
The Annual Academic Ceremony also provided the setting for the presentation of awards to students and teaching staff. The DAAD Prize, the HSRW Teaching Prize and the ZONTA Club Niederrhein Award were presented.
DAAD Prize
This year’s DAAD Prize, worth 1,000 euros, was awarded to Que Phuong Vu, a student on the International Taxation and Law programme in the Faculty of Society and Economics. The DAAD Prize recognises outstanding academic achievement by international students completing their studies in Germany. In her laudatory speech, Prof. Dr Tatiana Zimenkova, Vice-President for International Affairs and Diversity, pointed out that the prize-winner not only excels academically but is also actively involved in a wide range of activities both within and outside the university. She demonstrates a sense of responsibility and engagement in a wide variety of areas that is rarely seen. In addition to her work as an accounting tutor and a student assistant in tax research, Ms Vu also impresses through her exceptional commitment to interdisciplinary projects, such as an international collaboration with a partner university. As chair of the student council, course representative and an active member of the Quality Improvement Committee, she plays a key role in shaping student life, organising events and supporting first-year students. Particularly noteworthy is her successful integration, as an international student, into the social and cultural life of the university and the town of Kleve. Her academic achievement, her wide-ranging commitment and the example she sets make her an ideal candidate for the DAAD Prize.
Teaching Award
The 2025 Teaching Award was presented to Prof. Dr Matthias Krauledat, Professor of Computer Science at the Faculty of Technology and Bionics. By awarding the Teaching Prize, Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences demonstrates the high priority it places on the quality of teaching within the university and recognises the commitment of its teaching staff. It is awarded under a theme that changes annually and is endowed with 10,000 euros, which benefits the department. Prof. Dr Jörg Petri, Vice-President for Studies, Teaching and Academic Continuing Education, presented the award, which this year focused on the theme of ‘Teaching in and with large groups’. In his laudatory speech, he emphasised that, in selecting Prof. Krauledat, the jury had particularly recognised his pedagogical creativity and versatility. He employs flexible course structures to cater for the differing motivations and prior knowledge of his diverse student group. He has also received effusive praise from his students for his outstanding teaching.
ZONTA Club Niederrhein Award
The ZONTA Club Niederrhein Award, worth 1,000 euros, was presented for the 13th time. This prize honours female students at the university who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to Rhein-Waal University of Applied Sciences and their fellow students and/or who are involved in voluntary work outside the university. This year’s winner is Leidy Johanna Bedoya Giraldo, a Master’s student on the Sustainable Development Management programme. She was nominated by Prof. Dr Oliver Serfling, who highlighted the wide range of Bedoya Giraldo’s commitments in his laudatory speech. She has taken on the role of student representative for the programme and, as a member of social organisations, is also committed to food sharing and sustainable development in general. The award winner demonstrates commitment and drive far beyond the norm, added Elisabeth Derksen-Hübner, Vice-President of the ZONTA Club, who presented the award and outlined ZONTA’s objectives. ZONTA promotes international understanding and, in particular, fosters connections between women from different nations. Bedoya Giraldo joined the event via a live video link from the Peruvian Amazon, where she is currently based for research purposes as part of her Master’s degree. She accepted the award with obvious delight.
The evening’s annual academic celebration was attended by members of the university community, friends and supporters, as well as regional representatives from the worlds of business, politics and society. It marked the ceremonial conclusion of the Dies Academicus, an academic festival celebrated annually at the university. The evening was hosted by the journalist and amateur cabaret artist Ludger Kazmierczak, who provided an entertaining guide through the proceedings.
During the day, the Dies Academicus focused on internal university matters, with progress on university development planning featuring on the agenda alongside workshops on the State Garden Show, alumni engagement and the teaching of language skills to students. In addition, internationalisation projects at Rhein-Waal University of Applied Sciences were presented during a poster session, with prizes subsequently awarded to the best entries.
