The Technische Hochschule Mittelhessen (THM) is further advancing its cooperation with its partner universities in Central and Eastern Europe. The spring meeting of the international university network CUCEE (Cooperation of Universities in Central and Eastern Europe) at THM in Friedberg focused on joint study programs, new short-term programs, and research collaborations.
THMPresident Prof. Dr. Matthias Willems praised the long-standing collaboration within the network, which has existed for 26 years. Its aim is to expand scientific exchange and joint study and research programs in Central and Eastern Europe. The network originated from a cooperation between THM and the University of Zielona Góra, which will celebrate its 30th anniversary next year. Professor Ryszard Rybski from the Polish partner university presented Willems with a personal letter and a medal from Vice-Rector Prof. Dr. Justyna Patalas-Maliszewska.
The discussions, led by CUCEE coordinator Prof. Dr. Rafael Greszczynski from the Department Business Administration and Engineering (WI), focused on the further development of joint dual degree programs. Several Departments at THM are currently working to expand existing agreements with European partner universities and to better align study programs.
Blended Intensive Programs (BIPs) also played an important role. These combine digital learning opportunities with international in-person sessions. Lena Östreich from the Department of Business Information Systems presented an already successful example. Students from THM of Applied Sciences and universities in Poland and Finland are participating. Following a successful initial round at THM , the participants will meet in these countries in the coming years.
Furthermore, the partners discussed new research projects and funding opportunities, including those within the framework of the German Academic Exchange Service's (DAAD) Eastern Partnerships. It became clear that bilateral projects, in particular, could receive greater attention in the future. The guests showed great interest in the facilities and laboratories at the THMFriedberg campus and visited, among other things, the electrical engineering laboratory of Prof. Dr.-Ing. Dorra Baccar at the Department Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, and Materials Technology (M).
New collaborations in the bachelor's program were also being prepared. The Department of Information Technology, Electrical Engineering, and Mechatronics (IEM) is currently examining joint double degree programs with partner universities in Lviv and Gliwice. The first students from Ukraine and Poland could come to THM as early as the winter semester of 2026/27.