New German-Chinese International College bridges Osnabrück and Hefei through dual degrees
Decades of Contact Blossom Into a Thriving Partnership
What began in the 1980s with first contacts has today grown into an intensive exchange. "A deep and vibrant friendship has taken root, binding us together," emphasized Wolfgang Beckermann during a ceremonial reception in Hefei. He conveyed warm greetings from Mayor Katharina Pötter on the occasion of the 20th anniversary celebrations.
A Milestone for Students: The New International College
A highlight of the visit was the opening of the International College, elevating cooperation between Osnabrück University of Applied Sciences and Hefei University to new heights. The standout feature: students can now earn "dual degrees"—meaning those who study here will graduate with qualifications from both institutions, a major advantage in the global job market.
A Tree Planted for the Future
A symbolic moment came with the planting of a Friendship Tree in Hefei's German-Chinese Friendship Forest on campus. Alongside Lower Saxony's Minister-President Olaf Lies and representatives from Hefei, the Osnabrück delegation picked up shovels to mark the occasion.
"According to the Chinese calendar, this is the Year of the Fire Horse—a symbol of dynamism, strength, endurance, and prosperity," Beckermann noted. "These same qualities will continue to define our relationship with our sister city, Hefei."
With the launch of the International College, Osnabrück and Hefei are looking ahead with optimism. The message of this visit is clear: despite the vast distance, the people, businesses, and universities of both cities are growing ever closer.
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