Global Innovation Circle on Higher EducationInternational exchange format for higher education networks premieres in Hannover

Photo: GICHE

We expect representatives from up to 20 important international university networks at the GICHE kickoff.

The GICHE kickoff event will take place from 23–24 October, 2025 at Herrenhausen Palace in Hannover. The primary focus is on “Building Innovative Networks in Complex Times: What Lies Ahead for International Collaboration in Higher Education?“ About 35 leaders from 20 key international higher education networks will participate— seventy percent representing institutions from the Global South, including central networks from South America, Africa and Southeast Asia. Topics are the role of universities and resilient international partnerships in an era of growing complexity and disruptive change; innovative cooperation approaches and formats; equity and diversity; and research integrity in international cooperation.

Prof. Dr. Hauke Heekeren, president of the University of Hamburg: “At the University of Hamburg, we are convinced that our complex global challenges can only be met with a joint global response—and that the university landscape must play a leading role in this. With GICHE, we take responsibility as a University of Excellence and, together with our partners, create a format that brings together decision-makers from key university networks the world over. As a network of networks, GICHE provides a space for long-term inclusive global discourse on strategic issues of international higher education development and will add fresh impetus to sustainable innovations in the higher education landscape.”

Dr. Georg Schütte, CEO of the Volkswagen Foundation says “Uncertain times, in particular, call for dialogue and debate to build mutual understanding. GICHE continues the Volkswagen Foundation’s tradition of facilitating exchange, especially between higher education and research stakeholders. We are delighted to welcome the GICHE participants at Herrenhausen Palace.”

Prof. Dr. Walter Rosenthal, president of the German Rectors’ Conference says: “International dialogue and collaboration between university networks within GICHE strengthen the academic community as a global voice in a time when universities around the world are facing increasing pressure. The forum helps us harness their transformative potential in shaping solutions to the global challenges of our time and highlight the role of higher education, research, and innovation in fostering social progress and prosperity. The German Rectors’ Conference looks forward to taking part in this important initiative.”

The next GICHE workshop is planned for 2027. The format is jointly funded by the University of Hamburg and the Volkswagen Foundation. The University uses funds from the Excellence Strategy of the Federal and State Governments for this purpose.

Find further information at www.giche.net and www.linkedin.com/company/giche/