Students for Exchange

From May 6 to May 14, 2017, eleven students and one faculty member from Hlukhiv University in Ukraine visited our university. The exchange took place under the title “Shaping Inclusion Together.” During the project week, the focus was on practical and theoretical discussions of topics related to inclusion. The exchange was organized by three students majoring in Special Needs Education/Inclusion Studies as part of their project study.

The students participated in various classes / courses alongside German students. Working in small groups, they explored topics together in English and, in some cases, Russian. One afternoon, the Ukrainian students gave a public presentation on the structure and programs of their university and faculty. This was followed by a discussion on what an inclusive and accessible university should look like and what steps need to be taken to achieve this. The day concluded with a barbecue and games on the Görlitz university campus.

In addition, students observed classes at various institutions, such as the Neisse Elementary School and a residential group for people with intellectual disabilities. A highlight was a workshop led by the autistic artist Gee Vero titled “The Art of Inclusion” in Leipzig, which was greatly enjoyed by all participants.

The students also enjoyed a guided tour of Görlitz, and in Dresden, the delegation visited the Hygiene Museum. There, they were able to trace the history of human research and discuss the ethical questions that remain relevant to this day. The guided tour of Dresden and the accompanying sightseeing were met with great enthusiasm.

During joint leisure activities, such as a guided tour of the Rabryka Sociocultural Center or participation in the International Coffee Hour at the Maus Student Club, there were informal exchanges between Ukrainian and German students. Numerous connections and friendships were formed in the process.

Since this was the second exchange between students from Hlukhiv University and Görlitz University of Applied Sciences, existing structures and connections were further strengthened. All participants look back on an eventful and memorable time and are looking forward to the return exchange. The return exchange to the eastern Ukrainian city of Hlukhiv will take place from September 16–24, 2017. Those interested can contact the project group at students-for-exchange@hszg.de. We look forward to seeing you!

Our project was funded and supported by grants from the evz Foundation (Remembrance, Responsibility, and the Future) as part of the “MEET UP! German-Ukrainian Youth Encounters” program, the Federal Foreign Office, the Robert Bosch Foundation, and the DAAD’s Eastern Partnership Program.