Kufstein University deepens cooperation in Asia
- 22.10.2025
- International
FH Managing Director Prof. (FH) Dr. Thomas Madritsch at the Japanese partner university Nagoya University of Foreign Studies together with Masamine Tamai, Outbound Exchange Coordinator.
In the context of the internationalization strategy, FH Managing Director Prof. (FH) Dr. Thomas Madritsch visited partner universities in Japan and Korea to consolidate existing cooperation agreements and open up new perspectives for students.
International experience is a central component of studying at the University of Applied Sciences Kufstein Tirol. With over 235 partner universities worldwide, the university offers its students an exceptionally broad network of exchange opportunities. The mandatory semester abroad is a core element of the internationalization strategy and an expression of the university's commitment to combining practical education with global openness. “Our students should see the world as their learning and living space,” emphasizes Managing Director Prof. (FH) Dr. Thomas Madritsch. “Staying abroad sharpens intercultural skills, broadens perspectives, and promotes personal development - these are key qualifications for a globally networked working world.”
FOCUS ON JAPAN AND KOREA – MEETINGS WITH LONG-STANDING PARTNERS
In October, Thomas Madritsch led a delegation trip to Japan and Korea, where he visited renowned partner universities of the University of Applied Sciences Kufstein Tirol. The trip included stops at Osaka Gakuin University, Nagoya University for Foreign Languages, Yonsei University in Seoul, and Korea University, one of the country's leading universities. The aim of the trip was to strengthen existing partnerships and develop new forms of exchange.
In personal discussions with university administrators, faculty members, and international coordinators, the focus was on student exchanges, joint research initiatives, and the development of summer and winter school programs. “Our partnerships are bridges that promote cultural understanding and academic exchange,” said Madritsch. “It is precisely through direct dialogue with our local partners that new ideas emerge on how we can connect students and teachers even more closely.”
Madritsch was particularly impressed by the hospitality and innovative spirit of the partner universities: “The dynamism and internationality that can be felt in the lecture halls in Osaka or Seoul motivates us to set new impulses in Kufstein as well.”
EXPANDING GLOBAL COOPERATION AND NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR STUDENTS
The tour of Japan and Korea marks another milestone in the consistent implementation of the Internationalization Strategy at the University of Applied Sciences Kufstein Tirol. Numerous students are already benefiting from the diverse exchange programs in Asia, North America, and Europe – and the trend is rising. In the future, research collaborations and faculty mobility will be further intensified in addition to student exchanges.
“International collaborations are not a one-way street, but rather vibrant networks of learning,” emphasizes Madritsch. “They enable us to learn from each other, share innovations, and shape the future together.” Looking ahead to the coming years, the University of Applied Sciences Kufstein Tirol is determined to further expand its global partnerships – in the spirit of practical, cosmopolitan, and future-oriented higher education that opens up new horizons for students.
Links:
- Partner Universities | Website
- International Relations Office | Website
