Münster University implements measures for internationalization
It is uncontested that internationality is part of the basic understanding of science and teaching at a university. It forms the basis for excellence and competitiveness as well as for the attractiveness of Münster University as a place of science, study and work. In 2021, Münster University adopted the new version of its Internationalization Strategy and developed measures to achieve its goals. At an information event, Prof. Dr Michael Quante, Vice-Rector for Internationalization, Knowledge Transfer and Sustainability, and Dr Annika Hartmann, Head of the Project Office for the Implementation of the Internationalization Strategy, have now presented the process as well as the strategy and measures. "With the establishment of the strategic internationalization budget, the Rectorate has implemented structures and a process that will enable us to sustainably implement appropriate measures in the coming months and years," Michael Quante emphasized. Around 130 participants attended the event.
The measures developed by the Rectorate Commission for Internationalization with the involvement of the university public are assigned to five fields of action: Research, teaching, partnerships, visibility and profile building, and internationality in administration, services and infrastructure. Some measures are currently being planned; others are already being implemented. For example:
Support for young researchers’ international projects: SAFIR, the research funding support at Münster University, will design a training programme to sensitise young researchers at an early stage to the success factors in acquiring international projects
Support for international teaching: The International Office is designing a pilot funding programme to support the development of a wider range of English-language courses. Interested departments can apply for lump sums for the expansion of English-language offerings in German-language degree programmes or the development of English-language degree programmes. The first call for proposals is expected to be issued in early 2024.
Intercultural education: Students and staff at Münster University are given the opportunity to further develop their intercultural competence in thematically diverse courses. The offering includes German- and English-language events. Students can, for example, attend workshops on "Intercultural competence - an essential skill in a globalized world" or "Cultural diversity - approaching social reality". Staff can attend workshops such as "Intercultural workshop Iran" or "Shaping diversity - intercultural competence at the university".
The project office in the International Office of Münster University coordinates the implementation of the measures on behalf of the rectorate. Contact persons for questions and suggestions are Annika Hartmann and Petra Bettig (strategische.internationalisierung@uni-muenster.de). A project website provides information on the status of the implementation of the measures.