Leibniz University Hannover University News & Events Online Spotlights
LUH Initiative Block Chain Competence Network Named “Hochschulperle”

LUH Initiative Block Chain Competence Network Named “Hochschulperle”

First IT consulting service run by students recognised by the Association for the Promotion of Science and Humanities in Germany

Germany's first IT consulting service run by students, the Block Chain Competence Network (BKN), is delighted to receive a special recognition: the jury of the Association for the Promotion of Science and Humanities in Germany named the BKN "Hochschulperle Future Skills" for the month of May. "Hochschulperlen" (academic gems) are outstanding projects implemented at a university. Each month, the Association for the Promotion of Science and Humanities presents one outstanding project. In 2019, the nominations focus on future skills. The term refers to skills that will become increasingly important in the next few years in light of digitisation and new modes of working shaping professional life and fostering social participation. The Block Chain Competence Network was founded as an initiative of students and doctoral candidates at Leibniz University Hannover in December 2017.

"We are thrilled about this national recognition. We would particularly like to thank all those who supported us from the very first day: the university, our advisory board, and the businesses", says director and founder Alexander Johnston. The BKN consists of students and doctoral candidates from various fields and provides consulting services, specialising in artificial intelligence, data analysis, and block chain technology. The competence network addresses businesses, NGOs, and public authorities. In addition to technical and economic aspects of new key technologies, the BKN analyses social and humanistic aspects, such as IT law or IT ethics. Furthermore, there are regular presentations and workshops focusing on digitisation in collaboration with businesses.

The BKN invites students and doctoral candidates at universities in Hannover to attend the weekly meetings on Wednesday evening. Meetings are open to all students who are interested in digitisation and interdisciplinary exchange. Further information can be found at www.blockchain-kompetenznetzwerk.de.