Interdisciplinary learning - innovative FÜS modules at BTU: "BTU4Future"

In a combination of theoretical knowledge acquisition and practical application, BTU students can not only discover new perspectives, but also work together with their fellow students on an interdisciplinary basis. In this way, they strengthen their personal competences and interpersonal skills in addition to their subject-specific qualifications. Almost all Bachelor's and Master's study programmes at BTU require students to complete an FÜS module.

The FÜS module "BTU4Future" is all about participatory sustainability - in other words, how to shape sustainable development collectively. The module, which has been offered since the summer semester 2022, is held in German or English as required.

This summer semester, the focus was on cultural sustainability and dealing with cultures of remembrance. The specific occasion was the opening of the Women's Place for Bililee Ajiamé Machbuba on the BTU's main campus, the first for a Black woman. A place was to be created around this anchor point of the culture of remembrance where different perspectives on (colonial) history could be reflected upon and marginalised perspectives highlighted.

Abnet Mengesha Bekele, a Master's student in the second semester of Transformation Studies, emphasises: "The 'BTU4Future' module allows me to look at change from the perspective of a participating actor. This time it was about the story of Bililee Ajiamé Machbuba, an enslaved Ethiopian girl in the 18th century. For me, it was like rewriting a piece of history and becoming part of her past."

The seminar relied on a combination of online and face-to-face sessions, as well as several excursions. Together with guest lecturer Patricia Vester, a Potsdam-born artist, illustrator and activist for BIPoC, the participants in the current edition of the module developed their own projects. These were presented on 9 July at the official inauguration ceremony of the Women's Place for Bililee Machbuba.