The reasons for internationalizing universities are manifold. Every university has its own focus. What many institutions have in common is that internationalization plays a central role within their overall strategy. The University of Bonn is no exception. Within the framework of its strategy as a University of Excellence, the expansion and strengthening of international networks plays a central role in Bonn.
But why, exactly, is internationalization important and what goals can be pursued? This will be the subject of a conference on October 5th and 6th, 2020 entitled "Why Internationalization? Old and new rationales in diverse higher education systems". It will reflect on the motivations behind internationalization efforts at universities worldwide. Research findings will be contrasted with practical experiences.
On the first day of the conference, leading international academic personalities are invited to reflect on the various reasons for internationalizing universities from a theoretical perspective. The conference will start - after a welcome by Rector Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. Michael Hoch – with the Director of the Center for International Higher Education at Boston College, Professor Hans de Wit, with his keynote: "Why Internationalization? Shifting contexts and shifting values ask for new rationales for internationalization".
On the second day, the heads of the International Offices as well as the members of the university managements of Bonn partner universities responsible for international affairs, will meet to report on their practical experiences, their priorities and the challenges they face. A panel discussion will focus on the challenges, innovations and trends of internationalization in and after the Corona crisis.
Due to the corona pandemic, the conference will take place as a hybrid event. Interested parties from all over the world will have the opportunity to follow and actively participate in the event via a video conferencing system. The conference will be held in English.
Registration and further information at: https://www.uni-bonn.de/why-internationalization
Contact for the media:
Dr. Rahel Hutgens
International Affairs Officer, Rectorate of the University of Bonn
Phone: +49 (0) 228 73 68774
e-mail: referentin.internationales@uni-bonn.de