by Victor Otieno Odhiambo, Student Initiative Founder at JKUAT University, Nairobi, Kenya
Aktuelles
Cultivating Global (Ex)Change: SEED Student Initiative Founders' Journey in Germany
Picture this: a group of visionary minds from the SEED Student Initiative Founders across the eight partner universities in the Global South, setting foot in Germany with a resolute mission to shape the future of sustainable energy and entrepreneurship. What unfolded in the heart of Munich from 7 December to 16 December 2023 was more than a journey: it was an odyssey, meticulously orchestrated by the TUM SEED Center as part of the SEED Student Initiative Founder Scholarship Program.
Germany served as the enchanting canvas for this innovative collaboration. The founders, driven by a shared vision to explore uncharted horizons, exchange ideas, and foster connections, dived into a realm where possibilities knew no bounds.
The 2023 Global Collaboration to Empower Future Leaders in Sustainable Energy and Entrepreneurship Initiatives by the TUM SEED Center set out to establish an enabling environment for fostering international collaboration among student initiative founders to bolster synergies between these individuals and larger communities who share a common interest in sustainable energy and entrepreneurship, particularly in the context of advancing the development of countries in the Global South.
The program commenced on 7 December 2023, at the TUM Main Campus, Munich, Germany, with TUM’s most important academic celebration of the year, TUM Dies Academicus 2023, and culminated in the Global South Gala organized by TU eMpower Africa (TUMA). The program was designed to foster knowledge exchange, featuring dynamic panel discussions, inspiring keynote addresses, and interactive poster presentations showcasing innovative projects and research initiatives related to renewable energy.
Next up was an exhilarating week-long exploration into the fascinating realm of Sustainable Entrepreneurship, guided by a lineup of dynamic speakers in collaboration with TU eMpower Africa. It was a week brimming with insights, interactive sessions, and practical skills, setting the stage for the students to navigate the exciting world of sustainable entrepreneurship.
The second week entailed intense teamwork as the students sought to build sustainable business models for their ideas. This firsthand exposure to different educational landscapes provided valuable insights that will undoubtedly influence the Student Initiative's approach to fostering learning environments.
By now, you might think the Scholarship Program was all about intense classwork and lectures. Far from it! From an adrenaline-packed hike in the Bavarian Alps, guided tours at Audi, and field visits to Solar for Schools and Erdwarme Grünwald Geothermal Powerplant. These field visits complemented the theoretical knowledge practically and serve as new inspiration for the Student Initiative Founders' activities back home. Such experiences are invaluable in fostering a holistic worldview, essential for developing well-rounded leaders.
The lessons learned and connections made during this stay will undoubtedly shape the future trajectory of the Student Initiatives. Armed with a deeper understanding of global educational practices, innovative approaches, and a network of collaborators, the founders are determined to implement positive changes that will resonate with students worldwide. As the founders return from their transformative stay in Germany, the Student Initiative is poised to enter a new phase of growth and impact. With fresh perspectives, a global network, and a renewed sense of purpose, the founders are well-equipped to steer their initiatives toward greater success.
For all the Student Initiative Founders – Victor Otieno Odhiambo, Elias Nursefa Shikur, Afefa Mireille Akoumany, Sofia Stefany Diaz Marquina, Defrina Dwifani, Shailesh Ani Mishra and Monica Ndahafa Shangelao Set – this was more than a magical experience – it was a manifestation of what happens when brilliant minds unite to explore the limitless possibilities of sustainability.
