Network conference in Würzburg: THWS shapes digital transformation of Erasmus+
A clear sign for the digitalisation of international exchange in Europe: For the first time, the Technical University of Applied Sciences Würzburg-Schweinfurt (THWS) hosted the nationwide annual meeting of the Erasmus+ Digital Experts (EDE) from the National Agency for Erasmus+ Higher Education Cooperation (NA DAAD). The meeting focused on the development of efficient digital workflows as part of the European Student Card Initiative, as well as Europe-wide data exchange.
At the same time, this opportunity was also used for a strategic discussion between Maximilian Pinnen, Digital Officer at NA DAAD, and the THWS university management. The focus here was on shared perspectives regarding the further digitalisation of the European higher education area, as well as concrete steps to optimise digital processes at THWS.
"The fact that we were able to host the EDE in-person meeting at THWS for the first time and, at the same time, hold this strategic exchange with our university management sends a strong signal about our University's international and digital orientation," emphasises Anna Moritz, Team Leader for Digital Transformation at the THWS International Office and NA DAAD Erasmus+ digital expert since 2021. "We are proud to be actively shaping the digitalisation of European higher education from Würzburg."
Synergies from internationalisation and digitalisation
At German higher education institutions, internationalisation and digitalisation are closely intertwined and, given their synergies, must be considered hand in hand, according to Moritz. The digital management of student and staff mobility, collaborative teaching and partnerships is essential in the highly interconnected European higher education landscape. Against this backdrop, THWS is committed to the digitalisation of its international processes. Discussions between Maximilian Pinnen, the university management, the International Office, and the International Projects unit focused on the strategic integration and sustainable expansion of both areas of activity.
"Direct contact with higher education institutions is very important to us at NA DAAD," explains Pinnen. "I was therefore delighted to have the opportunity to discuss the opportunities and potential of Erasmus+ with the THWS management team and the International Office. THWS is a striking example of an institution tackling the challenges of digital transformation as a united team – this strategic approach is an excellent example of successful implementation."
The subsequent EDE working meeting focused on digital tools and processes that reduce the administrative burden within the Erasmus+ programme whilst simultaneously improving the quality of support for international students. The network, comprising staff from the international offices of eleven German higher education institutions, sees itself as a pioneer and an advocacy body for the higher education institutions in their dealings with the National Agency, the European Commission and other stakeholders. "The core of the EDE's work is to design digital processes and solutions in such a way that they make international mobility, cooperation and exchange even easier and more accessible," explains Moritz. Through its involvement in the EDE network, THWS plays an active role in shaping digital interfaces at federal and EU level.
Fact-check video for international offices
Alongside reports from committees and conferences, the focus was on a specific project: in the studio at the THWS University Media Center, the experts produced a video fact-check on the European Student Card Initiative. Many higher education institutions are facing technical uncertainties when it comes to implementing the new Erasmus+ requirements. The video, due to be released in September, dispels myths and offers practical guidance to international offices across the country.
Watch the video (only available in German)
About THWS
The Technical University of Applied Sciences Würzburg-Schweinfurt (THWS) is one of the largest universities of applied sciences in Bavaria and has driven teaching and applied research since it was founded in 1971. With about 9,200 students, a diverse range of more than 60 degree programmes and two graduate schools, THWS covers a broad spectrum from technology, economics and social sciences to languages and design. THWS is not only rooted in the region, but also has a strong international focus, which is reflected in numerous collaborations and exchange programmes worldwide and also in diverse English-taught degree programmes.
Contact:
Technical University of Applied Sciences Würzburg-Schweinfurt
Team Lead Digital Transformation at the International Office
Anna Moritz
Münzstraße 12
97070 Würzburg
Press contact:
Technical University of Applied Sciences Würzburg-Schweinfurt
Angela Kreipl
Münzstraße 12
97070 Würzburg
+49 931 3511-8354
