During a discussion with representatives of the university management, Anja Karliczek, Federal Minister for Education and Research, showed great interest in the current challenges facing Rhein-Waal University of Applied Sciences. The video conference on 27 August 2021 took place on the initiative of Stefan Rouenhoff, the Member of the Bundestag representing the district of Kleve.
In addition to the Federal Minister, the video conference was attended by the Executive Board and the deans of the university, as well as Stefan Rouenhoff, Member of the Bundestag for the Kleve constituency. A wide range of topics relating to studies, teaching and research were discussed, with the Minister focusing in particular on the university’s role in initial and continuing education and emphasising: “The international character of Rhein-Waal University of Applied Sciences is a real asset. We must make the most of this potential. We want to attract students to the university, particularly from rural areas, and retain them here.”
The university’s President, Dr Oliver Locker-Grütjen, echoed this view, highlighting the importance of regional networking and practice-oriented research for Rhein-Waal University of Applied Sciences. This is by no means at odds with the university’s international character: “Quite the contrary – many small and medium-sized enterprises in the region operate internationally, and some of them are even market leaders. These companies urgently need skilled workers who bring an international perspective with them.”
Member of the Bundestag Stefan Rouenhoff said: “Rhein-Waal University of Applied Sciences is of outstanding importance to the district of Kleve and the entire Lower Rhine region. It offers young people from our region training opportunities close to home. At the same time, the university holds enormous potential for the transfer of knowledge and technology, for innovation and for securing a skilled workforce in our region. This makes it all the more important to further strengthen the links between Rhein-Waal University of Applied Sciences and the regional economy. I am strongly committed to this cause.”
