Agnes

In March 2024, my colleague and I had the chance to visit Stellenbosch University (SU) for two events: the Academic Consortium for the 21st Century (AC21 Legacy Symposium) as well as the Stellenbosch International Academics Network (SIAN).

The first half of the week focused on international research and education collaboration within SDG 3, 7 & 9 in order to contribute to a sustainable world, with tracks hosted by the University of Strasbourg (SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), Freiburg University (SDF 7: Affordable and Clean Energy) as well as SU (SDG 3: Good health and well-being). SU organized a visit to the Biomedical Research Institute (BMRI) building at Tygerberg Campus as well as to Launch Lab, looking into Engineering laboratories as well as sustainability efforts at SU.

The second half of the week provided a general overview of International Higher Education in Africa as well as concepts of a responsible internationalization at Stellenbosch University. Best practices examples of internationalization for staff members were presented and strategies in terms of a strategic partnership portfolio were discussed. During the Study Abroad Fair, colleagues of the UAS Technikum Wien had the opportunity to present the institution to prospective Incoming students.

What practical arrangements did you make before the exchange?

On the website of the Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs (BMEIA), which offers relevant country information, I looked at current notes and the situation of security and crime in South Africa. The webpage also gives you information on currency and possible time differences. I also noted there that I won‘t need a visa, as my trip did not exceed 90 days. The arrival was easy and I could add another stamp to my passport!

How were you welcomed by the host institution?

Everyone at SU is so welcoming, upon arrival, you immediately feel at home! But: SU is a huge institution with more than 4.000 staff members, so first, you need to figure out who will be your contacts on-site! Stellenbosch itself is a smaller city, but with everything you need in walking distance, which I really appreciated. Stellenbosch University’s campus was just voted as one of the 25 most beautiful campuses in the world (https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/sus-stellenbosch-campus-listed-one-25-most-beautiful-ncnjf/) and I can now confirm this first-hand: beautiful alleys of oak trees, lots of runners along those paths, impressive university buildings, and a unique underground library. 

What was your most positive experience during your time abroad?

It was my first time on the continent and in South Africa and I was really impressed by the welcoming nature of everybody who’s paths I crossed. SU’s motto is „forward together, sonke siya phambili, saam vorentoe“ and I think it really captures the spirit of the institution. The best part was the traditional braai (barbecue) on the first evening, with everybody sharing food and connecting with each other, with a breathtaking sunset backdrop! It was an amazing experience and I can only recommend it to anyone who is interested in an exchange abroad!