NEW ERASMUS PARTNERSHIP WITH THE UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA

The University of Applied Sciences Kufstein Tirol was recently visited by the renowned University of Pretoria (UP) in South Africa. Benita Zulch (Head of Department: Construction Economics) and Derick Booyens (Lecturer in Engineering, Construction and Information Technology) were warmly welcomed by the International Relations Team. 

ENDLESS OPPORTUNITIES: WORKING TOGETHER FOR INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION IN THE ERASMUS+ KA171 PROJECT

The focus of the visit was an intensive exchange about cooperation within the framework of the Erasmus+ program, particularly with regard to the KA171 project, which the IRO of the FH Kufstein Tirol submitted in the 2024 application round and which has received a funding commitment from the Agency for Education and Internationalization (OeAD). Erasmus+ International Credit Mobility KA171 is a program of the Erasmus+ program that enables international exchange between program countries and partner countries from non-associated third countries. It offers students, teachers and staff the opportunity to undertake mobilities worldwide and thus gain valuable international experience.

The aim of the project is to promote intercultural cooperation, exchange knowledge and best practices, and strengthen the international orientation of participating higher education institutions. For students and teachers, KA171 offers the chance not only to improve their academic qualifications, but also to get to know new cultures and establish international networks. 

During the meeting, the implementation of the mobilities planned in the project was discussed and the next steps were agreed upon. The focus of the cooperation is on facility management, with the degree program Facility & Real Estate Management at the FH Kufstein Tirol and the Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology at the UP being involved. An exchange of lecturers (incoming & outgoing) is planned, as well as two incoming mobilities from Pretoria to Kufstein. Christian Huber, Director of Studies for Energy & Sustainability Management and Facility & Real Estate Management, presented the WinterSchool: Sustainable Urban & Community Development project and the new English-language Master's program in Energy & Sustainability Management*, which are relevant for UP participants in designing their stay abroad in addition to the International Program. Both institutions see great potential in a partnership that not only expands academic networks but also deepens intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding.

BRIGHT PROSPECTS: FROM COLLABORATION TO AN INSPIRING CAMPUS EXPERIENCE 

The meeting was extremely constructive, and the FH Kufstein Tirol is looking forward to further deepening this partnership and thus strengthening international cooperation in Africa. Personal contact and continuous efforts to develop further are very important for the quality of cooperation between partner universities and ensure a successful and fruitful exchange of students and teachers. 

After the successful and intensive discussions, the day was rounded off with an exciting campus tour at the Kufstein University of Applied Sciences. The guests had the opportunity to get to know the modern facilities of the higher education institution and to gain an insight into student life. 

*Start subject to permission by AQ Austria

Links:

• International Relations Office | IRO 
• Staff Mobility
• University of Pretoria: Partnerships and Collaborations