At the beginning of the year, Shatrughna Sinha, the Indian Consul General from Munich, visited Hof University of Applied Sciences and exchanged views with representatives of the university on important topics of international cooperation. Fundamental opportunities for cooperation were discussed against the backdrop of the New Education Policy (NEP) in India. This reform aims to make the Indian education system more flexible and international, for example by strengthening interdisciplinary cooperation and focusing on practical training.

The diplomat was welcomed by University President Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. Jürgen Lehmann, Prof. Dr. Gerald Schmola, Dean of Studies for Continuing Education, Wiebke Dörfler from the Bavarian-Indian Center for Business and Universities (BayIND) and Susanne Krause, Head of the International Office at Hof University of Applied Sciences. The talks focused on the further expansion of university relations with the Indian subcontinent. The successful cooperation model with the PSG College of Technology in Coimbatore in the field of innovative textiles met with particular interest.
Hof University of Applied Sciences attaches great importance to promoting international cooperation and strengthening both research and practice. For almost two decades, we have not only shared projects with India, but also the desire to make education more global and sustainable.”
Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. Jürgen Lehmann, President of the University;
Another topic of discussion was the general access of Indian students to universities of applied sciences in Germany, particularly in the area of Bachelor’s programs. Obstacles and opportunities were analyzed in order to further promote exchange.
Success factors for the exchange
A particular focus was placed on the question of why the exchange between Germany and India, especially at Hof University of Applied Sciences, is so successful. Factors such as the intensive support provided to international students, the broad network of BayIND and the practice-oriented degree courses at Hof University of Applied Sciences were highlighted as key success factors.

The German Federal Cabinet recently adopted its India Skilled Workers Strategy. In the government paper, both Hof University of Applied Sciences and the Bavarian-Indian Center for Business and Higher Education (BayIND) at the university are named as outstanding practical examples.
“Our strength lies in our combination of cosmopolitanism and regional roots. This interaction enables us to build a bridge between cultures and to shape international exchange in both directions in a profitable way,” says Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. Lehmann.
Meeting with Indian students
One component of the visit was the exchange with Indian students. Shatrughna Sinha enquired about their experiences in Upper Franconia and offered the support of the Consulate General in the event of any problems. This direct dialog was greatly appreciated by the students.
Inauguration of an “Indian Book Corner”
As a sign of solidarity, the Consul General presented several books about India, which form a separate “Indian Book Corner” in the university library. These books are intended to help deepen understanding of Indian culture and history.



The Consul General also took part in a tour of the campus and enjoyed lunch with the university representatives.