‘Ulysseus strengthens internationalisation’
The University of Münster became a member of the ‘Ulysseus European University’, an association of eight European universities, in November 2023. The first network meeting, entitled ‘Ulysseus Days’, will take place in Münster from 28 to 30 October. Project coordinator Barbara von Groote-Gotzes spoke with Kathrin Kottke about the aims and content of the event, and who stands to benefit from the Ulysseus network.
What exactly will happen at the three-day event, and who is it for?
The kick-off event for Ulysseus in Münster is open to all students, researchers and employees of our partner universities. We hope that many from the University of Münster will attend and learn more about Ulysseus. The programme includes lectures, workshops and panel discussions on sustainability and the European community. A special highlight will be the first public presentation of our innovation hub on the topic of ‘Socio-Ecological Sustainability’.
There are eight innovation hubs in total, each addressing important challenges facing society. They include issues such as cyber security, sustainable entrepreneurship, ageing and well-being. The innovation hub in Münster is a place where researchers, instructors, students and the general public come together, where innovative research and teaching take place, and where encounter and exchange are possible.
What are some examples of your collaborative work?
We are currently in the process of setting up a research centre on cooperative sustainability which will be based at the Center for Interdisciplinary Sustainability Research. This includes, for example, so-called Living Labs and start-up incubator programmes to promote community engagement and demand-driven innovation. ‘Open Classes’ and a ‘Teaching Innovation Lab’ aim to provide innovative research-based learning experiences that address sustainability issues.
Ulysseus stands for a common European vision and democratic values that must be preserved and promoted. What impact does this have on Münster in general and the University in particular?
As part of the Ulysseus network, our aim is to help shape the European idea and to work together with other universities on addressing future challenges, for example, climate change, loss of biodiversity, energy system transformation, and peace and democracy issues. The Ulysseus network strengthens and promotes internationalisation at the University of Münster, for example, by bringing together students and researchers across Europe. At the same time, Ulysseus can be important when it comes to acquiring European third-party funding.
In what ways does Ulysseus help strengthen internationalisation at the University of Münster?
For example, students, staff and researchers have the opportunity to take part in short-term, medium-term and long-term stays abroad, funded by Ulysseus. We also use Ulysseus to establish international degree programmes and to simplify collaboration in European research networks.
How can students at the University of Münster benefit from Ulysseus?
Students can take part in European degree programmes, earn credit or complete a work placement at one of the partner universities. In addition, students have the opportunity to study in Münster with other European students and thereby expand their own network. This experience promotes students’ intercultural skills.