As part of the anniversary commemoration, a delegation from Oldenburg visited Nelson Mandela University at the end of 2022. In June 2023, a delegation from Mandela University visited Oldenburg. In addition to holding symposia discussing the outcomes of different collaborative research projects, both universities have agreed on a Roadmap for Cooperation 2023-2028, which is intended to consolidate, strengthen, and further develop existing relations in the forthcoming years.
Nelson Mandela University Vice-Chancellor Professor Sibongile Muthwa said, “We value our partnership with the University of Oldenburg. Both universities have much to share and learn from each other, so the relationship is mutually beneficial, whereby we will pursue various niche collaborations that straddle the three academic missions of learning and teaching; research and innovation; and engagement.”
Professor Ralph Bruder, President of the University of Oldenburg said, “Internationalisation is at the heart of everything we do. In order to find answers to the major questions facing society in the 21st century, researchers, students and administrative staff work closely together. Within our network, Nelson Mandela University is one of our closest partners.”
In the next five years collaboration in research, education, engagement, and knowledge transfer will be focused on areas including Education (internationalising teacher education, diversity and inclusion and research on digitalisation of higher education institutions); Sustainability Science and deep transitions; Marine Sciences (ocean and coastal environments); Humanities and the Social Sciences; Medicine and Health Sciences; and renewable energy.
As part of the renewed five-year partnership the two universities are intensifying efforts in supporting early career researchers. This will include joint PhD supervision from both universities and opening of training courses, as well as organising joint summer schools and applying for exchange programmes.
The partnership will prepare students and graduates for more flexible career paths within and outside the university environment.
