First India Day at BTU

Following a welcome address by the President of BTU, Prof. Gesine Grande, the Indian Ambassador to Germany, H.E. Mr Ajit Vinayak Gupte, provided an insight into Indo-German cooperation in his opening speech. 

As the largest international community, Indian students and researchers shape academic life on campus and also contribute to its cultural life. At the Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg (BTU), young people from India study in particular technical subjects such as artificial intelligence, power engineering and environmental and resource management. 

BTU President Prof. Dr Gesine Grande said: “India Day is an important gesture of appreciation for our Indian students and researchers, who, as the largest international group at the BTU, play a key role in shaping campus life. During my trip to India with a DAAD delegation in March 2025, I witnessed first-hand the dynamism and innovative strength of the Indian higher education and research system. This presents BTU with numerous opportunities to further expand our partnerships with Indian universities and research institutions – for the benefit of our students and researchers, as well as for the development of Lusatia as a region of science and research.”

India is rapidly emerging as a world-leading centre for science and innovation. The dynamic development of its higher education and research system opens up numerous points of contact and opportunities for bilateral cooperation between the two countries. The possibilities are wide-ranging. They extend from student mobility and the recruitment of skilled personnel to research and innovation partnerships. 

The aim of the event was therefore to highlight the contributions made by students and researchers from India to the success of the BTU and to celebrate what has been achieved. Experienced students and researchers spoke about their academic journeys and achievements. At the same time, they sought to inspire the younger generation of students and engage with them. 

The programme thus included presentations from the fields of research and knowledge transfer, as well as insights into degree programmes, start-up activities, careers in academia and professional development opportunities in the business sector. The development of Lusatia as a region in transition and the Lusatia Science Park were highlighted, as were success stories and potential career paths for undergraduates and PhD students in this context.

India Day was accompanied by traditional performances by Indian students. The event, organised by students from ISAC (the Indian Student Association at BTU), was funded by the Indian Embassy and, as part of the STIBET programme, by the DAAD with funding from the Federal Foreign Office (AA).