From May 4 to 8, 2026, Ludwigshafen University of Applied Sciences welcomed numerous international guests to the annual VIP network meeting under the motto "The Power of Partnership". Representatives of our partners from the network (Belgium, Bulgaria, Estonia, Finland, France, Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Spain and Turkey) came together to deepen existing collaborations, develop new projects and further expand international exchange.
After arriving and getting to know each other, the guests were given an insight into the university and its international activities during a campus tour and a welcome address by Prof. Dr. Edith Rüger-Muck, Vice President for International Affairs.
The other days of the program focused on current developments in the network, successful BIP projects (Blended Intensive Programmes), Erasmus+ collaborations and the planning of future joint projects. A particular highlight was Christine Heinzel's keynote speech on "The Power of Networking", which emphasized the importance of international networks and personal encounters.
In addition to workshops and professional exchanges, the meeting also provided an opportunity to get to know Ludwigshafen and the region - including a wine tasting in Bad Dürkheim, a walk on the Parkinsel and joint evening events.
At the Degree, the participants looked back on a successful week and already developed initial ideas for future collaborations (including double degree programs) and the 4th VIP Meeting 2027 in Cyprus.
The 2026 network meeting showed once again that successful internationalization thrives on reliable partnerships, personal relationships and shared visions. Jacob Wolff and Christiane Weinerth would like to thank all guests and participants for an inspiring week in Ludwigshafen.
