About the Program

Saarland University (UdS) invites applications for the SUUN Training Course (SUUN-TC) – an intensive professional development program designed to strengthen strategic leadership at Ukrainian universities through bilateral cooperation and international knowledge exchange. This initiative is part of the wider project Saar-Ukraine University Network (SUUN): Overcoming Borders for a EUropean Future, supported by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and funded by the German Ministry of Research, Technology, and Space.

Objectives

The SUUN-TC aims to empower academic leaders to:

• Design and implement a Strategic Action Plan (SAP) tailored to their institutional needs

• Advance key skills in leadership, communication, and intercultural management

• Gain exposure to best practices in university internationalization and governance aligned with the European Higher Education Area (EHEA)

Course Format and Timeline

The course spans three online phases and one in-person phase:

• Phase 1 | Jan–Feb 2027 | Online | Orientation webinar, SAP introduction

• Phase 2 | Apr 2027 | On-site | 6-day training in Saarbrücken: Internationalization, HR, Quality Management.

• Phase 3 | Jun–Jul 2027 | Online | Thematic webinars, SAP coaching sessions

• Phase 4 | Oct–Nov 2027 | Online | SAP presentations, soft skills workshops

Language: English (with some sessions in Ukrainian)

Trainers: Experts from UdS and Ukrainian HEIs, DAAD alumni, leadership professionals

Who Should Apply?

We welcome applications from candidates who meet the following criteria:

• Hold a position of Vice-Rectors or Deans/Vice-Deans (or similar strategic academic leadership role)

• Are employed at a Ukrainian university accredited by the Ministry of Education

• Demonstrate strong motivation for international collaboration and institutional reform

Scholarship and Funding

This training course is financed by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) with funding from the German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR) under the program line “German-Ukrainian University Network.” As a result, selected participants from Ukrainian higher education institutions are exempt from paying any tuition or registration fees. In addition, a DAAD scholarship will be awarded to support participation in the on-site training module at Saarland University. The scholarship includes:

• A travel allowance of EUR 350 to help cover travel to and from Saarbrücken, local transfers, visa fees, travel and health insurance, accident and liability insurance, and related expenses.

• An accommodation allowance, currently set at EUR 96 per day, for the duration of the on-campus training in Saarbrücken, according to DAAD regulations.

Application Documents (PDF only)

• Completed Application Form https://forms.gle/XyxdCBnLeRfsjkEx6 

• Motivation Letter (up to 500 words)

• Organigram of your institution indicating your position and role within the larger university structure

• Letter of Support from your university leadership (Rector)

• English proficiency certificate (optional, but recommended)

Note: Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an online interview to verify language skills and motivation.

Deadline: October 10, 2026

More information can be found in the attached files: 

SUUN_2027_Call

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