International exchange and research launch: visit from Rwanda strengthens cooperation with the Ruli Higher Institute of Health
Ludwigshafen University of Business and Society (HWG LU) welcomed a high-ranking visitor from Rwanda on April 27, 2026. After a welcome by Prof. Dr. edith Rüger-Muck, Vice President for International Affairs, the focus was on the exchange with the partner university Ruli Higher Institute of Health (RHIH), represented by Father Kayiranga Jean de Dieu Felix, Human Resources Officer. The meeting was accompanied by representatives of the Rhineland-Palatinate-Rwanda Hospital Association and graduates of the Bachelor's degree course in Midwifery Science.
The visit provided an important platform to further expand the existing collaboration in the field of nursing and midwifery science. Experiences were exchanged, joint teaching formats reflected upon and future opportunities for cooperation discussed in talks with professors and subject representatives from HWG LU. The university's skills and simulation center was also presented to illustrate practical training approaches.
A special focus was placed on the international exchange programs: HWG LU education staff and midwifery graduates had already visited the partner institution in Rwanda several times since 2024. Conversely, a lecturer from RHIH was also a guest in Ludwigshafen. These reciprocal visits underline the lively partnership and create the basis for sustainable educational and research cooperation.
Launch of a joint research project on birth cultures
A milestone in the collaboration is the launch of a new research project comparing birth cultures in Germany and Rwanda. The aim of the project is to analyze different cultural, medical and social perspectives on birth and to gain insights for midwifery practice and training.
The project is funded by a scholarship from the ASA University program. The midwives Leonie Hartwich and Charlotte Saal are being supported as part of this program. The two scholarship holders will each spend three months in Germany and three months in Rwanda to conduct research and gain intercultural experience.
The project is exemplary for the practical and internationally oriented education at the HWG LU. At the same time, it makes an important contribution to global health research by combining perspectives from the global North and South.
Outlook
Cooperation between the HWG LU and the RHIH is to be further intensified in the coming years. Additional exchange programs and joint research initiatives are planned, including with a view to extended funding within the framework of international programs.
The current visit and the start of the research project represent a further step towards sustainable, partnership-based cooperation in the field of health education and research.
Contact:
Ludwigshafen University of Business and Society
Department of Social and Health Care
Midwifery Science
Mareike Kast(mareike.kast@ 8< SPAM protection, please remove >8 hwg-lu.de)
Prof. Michaela Michel-Schuldt PhD(michaela.michel-schuldt@ 8< SPAM protection, please remove >8 hwg-lu.de)
