University Games 2025: University of Bergamo Currently takes Center Stage
In the heart of Essener Gruga Park, the World University Games 2025 provided a unique platform for the revitalisation of a longstanding university partnership. Bergische Universität Wuppertal (BUW) welcomed a delegation from the Technical University of Košice (TUKE), marking a significant step in their ongoing collaboration.
The partnership, rooted in the town twinning between Wuppertal and Košice since 1980, dates back to the early 1980s. Over the decades, this relationship has cultivated scientific and historical connections, with the university cooperation initiated in 1982 [1].
During the Games, the focus was on the exchange of common projects and future cooperation possibilities in research, teaching, and knowledge transfer. The Slovakian delegation engaged with BUW’s Schumpeter School of Business and Economics and the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Information Technology and Media Technology [1].
The visit was a symbolic gesture, with BUW adopting Slovakia as part of the event’s "Adopt a Delegation" program. This choice highlighted the historic ties between the two universities, providing a platform for networking with political representatives and establishing a shared vision for the future [1].
Plans for the future include an intensification of student and doctoral student exchanges within the framework of Erasmus, the mediation of internship places both in the region of Košice and in the Bergisches Städtedreieck, and joint applications for EU funding for scientific events and research projects [1].
The festival stand, organised by UniSport, offered visitors a glimpse into BUW’s vibrant university life. The stand showcased study offerings, interactive activities on green chemistry, and the Formula Student racing car built by the Green Lion Racing Team [1].
Meanwhile, 15 students from BUW volunteered as volunteers at the Games, forging valuable connections during their service. The students also visited the festival stand during their breaks, experiencing the unique aspects of their own university, including lived university sports, student innovation, and enthusiasm for research and teaching [1].
The visit included participation in official receptions and meetings with representatives from state and federal politics. Dennis Fink, head of UniSports at BUW, emphasised the importance of being present and in dialogue during the Games [1]. Prof. Dr.-Ing. Peter Gust (Pro-Rector for Third Mission and International Affairs) also highlighted the symbolic significance of supporting Slovakia during the "Adopt a Delegation" program [1].
The World University Games 2025 served as a catalyst for the renewed collaboration between BUW and TUKE, setting new impulses for cooperation and paving the way for a more integrated academic future.
The Schumpeter School of Business and Economics at Bergische Universität Wuppertal (BUW) might consider exploring opportunities for collaboration with TUKE in education-and-self-development programs, given their connection in the areas of research, teaching, and knowledge transfer.
The festival stand at the World University Games 2025, coordinated by UniSport, offered a chance to showcase BUW's involvement in sports, along with interactive activities and students' enthusiasm, fostering unity and camaraderie between TUKE and BUW delegations.
