The event brought together international colleagues from partner universities around the world to collaborate on shared challenges and future opportunities in higher education.
In addition to introducing the University of Freiburg and highlighting its key projects, focus areas and historical links with the city, the programme focused on addressing pressing issues around sustainable mobility opportunities for students and staff. Participants shared experiences from their home institutions in envisioning, designing and exploring ways to maintain programmes and partnerships, as well as teaching and learning opportunities with partner institutions.
The programme included a variety of engaging sessions such as a guided tour of Freiburg’s historic city centre, led by Wilhelm Gros of the university’s Uniseum, which provided a unique perspective on how the university and the city have evolved together over the centuries. Furthermore, participants could engage in a World Café session on sustainable mobility, where participants gathered in small, themed groups to discuss current challenges in mobility and internationalisation.
Another highlight was the session “Freiburg’s Green Legacy: Shaping a sustainable future – from campus to city”. This session provided insights into the University’s ongoing sustainability efforts, followed by an SDG walk through Freiburg’s Vauban district, a sustainable neighbourhood that reflects the city’s progress towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The day concluded with a vineyard excursion and wine tasting. Located in a picturesque vineyard in the southern region of Freiburg.
The event also showcased Freiburg’s involvement in the EPICUR European University Alliance. Led by Charlotte Langowski, Lisa Hüther-Pape and Dorthe Hutz-Nierhoff, this session highlighted the University’s commitment to transnational cooperation and interdisciplinary learning. There was a particular focus on the EPICUR Teaching and Learning Centre, an initiative that aims to transform education through cross-border partnerships and innovation.
The atmosphere was energetic and collaborative. Participants brought a wealth of knowledge and engaged in a productive exchange of ideas and innovative solutions. By the end of the event, the group had forged stronger bonds, fostered new perspectives and laid the groundwork for continued collaboration towards a more equitable and sustainable future for higher education.
Pictures: Nathanael Ullrich