Alliance coordinator Prof. Dr. Semiha Denktaş’ visit to Ruhr University Bochum: Strengthening UNIC’s Future

From deep discussions on joint funding opportunities, research avenues, and new teaching initiatives within UNIC, to new lines of strategic cooperation between our post-industrial cities and municipalities, the visit underscored the work UNIC was championing in building inclusivity across higher education. The future of the European University has never looked stronger!

Highlights from the visit included a presentation at the municipality to hear about Bochum City’s strategy 2030, including examples of city projects such as the ‘Welcome to Stay’ project for much-needed labour migrants. An engaging tour of the WORLDFACTORY Makerspace followed, under the direction of Prof. Stefanie Bröring, where the delegation explored the transformation of industrial spaces into thriving technology hubs and making societal impact by crossing ‘deep technology’ with other sciences disciplines.

A series of impactful meetings were organized, with RUB Rector prof. Martin Paul on strategic collaboration, Vice Rector of Education prof. Kornelia Freitag on governance and university development, and with Vice Rector for Research prof. Günther Meschke on strengthening research cooperation across the UNIC Alliance. UNIC Project Manager at RUB, Jonna Tikkanen, along with her local team, was key in putting this productive agenda together.

“It was very nice to compare notes and to discuss the road ahead for our alliance,” said RUB rector prof. Martin Paul. “Especially in times where Europe is under threat to drift apart, strong connections between European universities that share a similar heritage and misson is even more important. We are looking forward to continue this excellent collaboration with many new ideas and projects.”

With RUB rector prof. Martin Paul



Prof. Denktaş also met with Jutta Schmid and Laura Schiffman at RUB’s International Office to discuss progress on mobility, staff and student exchanges, as well as the Digital Learning Coordination team led by Martin Dekker and the Governance & University Development unit led by Dr. Judith Ricken. A lunch catchup with the pioneering SEOS Joint Master team including prof. Dr. Henrieke Terhart, prof. Dr. Marc Stadler, and Chris Katzenberg, led to a brainstorm on UNIC marketing and student recruitment efforts.

The visit was capped by an enriching discussion with Vice Rector for Diversity and Inclusion prof. Isolde Karle, and a close engagement with the UNIC Student Board, with representatives Alexander Lueg and Aizhana Khasanova providing valuable insights into strengthening student participation in UNIC.

“I look forward to building on these conversations,” said prof. Denktaş, “Continuing our joint efforts to enhance education, research, and mobility within UNIC.”

Photo Credits: ©RUB, Marquard + Dr. Judith Ricken