International Day at Kiel University

Broadening awareness of other cultures, promoting the exchange of students and researchers to other countries, welcoming guests from abroad: At International Day on Tuesday, 7 May, Kiel University presents the broad spectrum of intercultural life on campus. Visitors can expect a varied programme, from an information fair, workshops and a documentary film to flash language courses and networking opportunities - such as an informal "chai and chat".

On International Day, Kiel University will be highlighting many different facets of activities and offerings on campus; it aims to inform, motivate and create opportunities for networking. Many players will present their international programmes and funding opportunities at a fair with information stands and an extensive poster exhibition in the Audimax, including the SEA-EU Alliance, a network of nine coastal universities. In the foyer, people can socialise over a cup of chai tea. Kiel University's International Centre (IC) will also be introducing itself. It is the point of contact for all questions relating to university partnerships and international contacts, and looks after foreign students and academics. The IC also advises Kiel students on studying or doing an internship abroad and runs three guest houses (www.international.uni-kiel.de/de)

Kiel University staff and students and anyone else who is interested can find out about funding opportunities for stays abroad at numerous events on International Day. Flash language courses for ten different languages - including Hindi and Ukrainian - aim to convey the joy of intercultural issues, as do a Chinese tea ceremony and an entertaining quiz. Workshops such as by student teachers about their practical experience abroad round off the colourful programme, along with the screening of an Indian documentary film followed by a panel discussion, and an information event on international research.

International Day at Kiel University is part of the "Week of European Universities" from 5 to 12 May and is under the patronage of the Federal Minister of Education, Bettina Stark-Watzinger. There are currently over 2,400 international students registered at Kiel University, and many hundreds of academics from abroad, such as post-docs, research with us. The events and information offerings will take place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at various locations on campus in addition to the Audimax (Christian-Albrechts-Platz 2). The University offers childcare for parents in the Audimax foyer throughout the day. You can find detailed information on all offerings at www.international.uni-kiel.de/de/international-day.

Text: Joachim Welding