DIES MoI Alumni – Leibniz University Hannover

In light of global crises, our programme aims to strengthen professional exchange and networking while providing new impetus for crisis-resilient higher education management and future-oriented internationalization activities. As part of this dialogue, we bring together DIES MoI alumni and project partners, creating a space for expert input, reflection, exchange, and collaboration. In doing so, we build upon the program’s established goals—specifically the role of alumni as multipliers, the transfer of reform measures, and institutional networking.

Sharing knowledge, shaping change

As part of the five-month dialogue, we will hold various thematic online sessions to which we invite all DIES MoI alumni. Alumni can actively contribute to the dialogue sessions as speakers. Participants will evaluate the individual sessions as well as the online dialogue as a whole. The following formats will be featured:

Expert presentations
Virtual panel discussions
Alumni group work
Presentations of alumni projects (best practices)

Aims of the dialogue

1. Expanding and deepening knowledge: Alumni update their knowledge regarding global changes in order to adapt their work at higher education institutions.

2. Innovation and crisis resilience: Through the exchange of expert knowledge and best practices, alumni develop innovative, sustainable approaches to align their work with current global trends in a future-oriented manner.

3. Networking: Alumni increasingly connect with one another, deepen existing contacts, and establish new institutional partnerships. Particular emphasis is placed on building professional networks.

1 July 2026 to 31 December 2026

Period of time

DIES talks

*The final dates will be confirmed soon.

Dates (TBC)*

New Developments and Strategies in Internationalisation (03.08.26) - 2:00 pm
The session offers a comprehensive overview of current global trends in international higher education and highlights strategic pathways for its future.

Key session topics
Global trends & a focus on transformation
Influencing factors: Analysis of geopolitical, technological, and societal changes
Knowledge transfer: Direct exchange and presentation of forward-looking solutions
Expert: Dr. Jeanine Gregersen-Hermans
Leadership and Future Competencies in Internationalisation (17.08.26) - 1:00 pm
In this panel discussion, alumni in leadership positions discuss the future of leadership at international higher education institutions.

Key session topics
Leadership in transition: Discussing the future of leadership in higher education
New demands: The impact of digitalization, geopolitics, and societal changes on leaders
Future-oriented competencies: A focus on essential skills for sustainable internationalisation
Strategic approaches
Expert: Prof. Dr. Norazharuddin Shah Abdullah
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) (31.08.26) - 2:00 pm (German Time)
Project partners and the audience discuss equal opportunities and inclusion in international higher education in this interactive session.

Key points
Breaking down barriers: Reducing structural obstacles for international students and staff.
Inclusive mobility: Making exchange programmes more accessible and equitable.
Science Diplomacy in Times of Power Politics (14.09.26) - 3:00 pm (German Time)

This session focuses on current developments and strategic approaches regarding science diplomacy amidst global power-political tensions.

At its core is the question of how higher education institutions can ensure the sustainability of their international cooperation despite these geopolitical challenges.

Expert: Dr. Christina Philips, Senior Desk Officer Science Diplomacy, Regional Coordination East Asia and Oceania. S21 - DAAD.
Risk and Crisis Management (28-29.09.26) - 3:00 pm (German Time)
In this session participants develop practical approaches to risk and crisis management in international higher education cooperation.

Key session topics
Risk analysis: Examination of current global crises and risks.
Crisis management: Introduction to fundamental principles, strategies, and tools.
Exchange of experience: Collaborative development of practical solutions.
Expert: Shaun M. Jamieson, Director of Global Safety and Security for Emory Global Engagement.
Internationalisation in Times of Political Transformation (13.10.26) - 3:00 pm (German Time)
This session addresses the impact of geopolitical conditions on international higher education cooperation and mobility.

The focus is on:
Exchanging institutional perspectives.
Developing strategies for sustainable partnerships amidst political uncertainties.
Goal: Ensuring the continued viability of higher education partnerships.
Sustainable Partnerships in Times of Crises (End of October)
Through an interactive panel discussion, this session focuses on the sustainable design and further development of international higher education partnerships in times of global uncertainty.

The focus is on:
The resilience and further development of higher education partnerships amidst political and economic uncertainties.
Thematic networking – building subject-specific partnerships/networks (Early November)
The closing session rounds off the event with an interactive networking format designed to foster the targeted development of professional networks and new international project ideas.
Format: Interactive networking via thematic breakout rooms and targeted matchmaking.