News

The two foreign representatives were impressed by the modern research infrastructure during their tour of the research buildings. Photo: © Aalen University | Saskia Stüven-Kazi

High-ranking visitor at Aalen University: The Consul General of the Republic of India for Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg, Shatrughna Sinha, was a guest and informed himself about the study programs, research projects and numerous cooperations that the university maintains with the South Asian country. He was accompanied by Amir Bashir, the consul responsible for commerce and education. The two foreign representatives were impressed by the practical training of the students and the modern research infrastructure.

Close ties with India

India is one of the most dynamic economic nations in the world - and is therefore an interesting partner for both Baden-Württemberg companies and universities. Aalen University maintains intensive relations with India through its partner universities in Pune (Symbiosis Skills and Professional University, Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics and Vishwakarma Group of Institutions and University), Indore (Symbiosis University of Applied Sciences), Bangalore (Presidency University) and in Kochi (Rajagiri School of Engineering and Technology). “It is a great honor for us to welcome you as our guest at the university so soon after you took office,” emphasized University Rector Prof. Dr. Harald Riegel at the reception for Shatrughna Sinha. The Indian Consul General has been in office since September and is currently visiting Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria to get to know the two federal states better.

Great potential for future collaborations

“Germany is very interesting for Indian students due to its high standard of education,” said Shatrughna Sinha during his visit to Aalen University. He sees great potential for future cooperation, according to the internationally experienced diplomat, who can look back on stations in Berlin, Islamabad and New York. He was very interested to learn about the wide range of degree courses and projects such as the Welcome Center Ostwürttemberg and its services. It supports small and medium-sized companies in particular in finding international skilled workers, brings international applicants together with potential employers and helps students from all over the world to get started at universities in the region. “One of the keys to success for Indian students is learning the German language. Therefore, I think it is very good that Aalen University also includes German language courses as compulsory modules in its English-language Bachelor's degree programs,” said Sinha and added: ”We are very proud that Indian graduates can contribute to the success of the German economy and the fight against the shortage of skilled workers.” University Rector Prof. Dr. Harald Riegel also emphasized the great importance of Indian students for Aalen University: “They are hard-working, creative and very motivated. Our recruitment activities for international students have a strong focus on India. In addition, the internationalization of the university is an important strategic topic.”

Tour through the research buildings

During their visit, the two foreign representatives had the opportunity to get a personal impression of the research activities at Aalen University. During a tour of various laboratories and institutes such as the LaserApplicationCenter (LAZ), the research buildings with the four-axis test stand and the Institute for Materials Research (IMFAA), Riegel explained current research projects to the two visitors. The Consul General asked the students and international researchers questions with interest and was impressed by the opportunities for cooperation between India and Germany in the field of science and technology. “We are very motivated to work together and look forward to future collaborations with Indian institutions,” emphasized Riegel.