An information day on higher studies and research took place this Saturday, Sept 08th 2018, at the prestigious University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli. The event had been organised by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and the Office of International Affairs of the University of Hyderabad and attracted more than 500 students from a wide range of disciplines and study backgrounds. The event was inaugurated by Prof. Appa Rao Podile, Vice Chancellor of the University, and Mr. Michael Wegener, Deputy Consul General of the German Consulate General in Chennai.
A general overview on the German research landscape, as well as funding opportunities by the DAAD, was followed by presentations by the Free University of Berlin, the University of Göttingen, and the Technical University of Munich, which provided students with helpful insights on first steps towards a Masters, PhD or PostDoc in Germany. Later, the Goethe Centre Hyderabad introduced its range of German language classes and programmes. Prof. Aranya B Bhattacherjee, professor of physics at BITS Pilani Hyderabad and DAAD Alumnus, spoke about his experiences in Germany and the chances and challenges for young researchers he sees in the Indo-German academic exchange. In the final session, a visa officer from the German Consulate Chennai guided through the process of applying for a student or guest scientist visa.
According to Mr Wenzel, Director of the DAAD Office in Chennai, the overwhelming response to the event illustrates the significance of the Indo-German academic exchange especially in the Hyderabad region, with its many excellent research institutions and an impressive number of Germany Alumni. Many of them have ongoing collaborations with German universities and research institutions. It is interesting to know that Germany is among the top-three destinations for international students worldwide, with more than 12% of its total student population being international students, and Indian students forming the second largest group of them. research!