By receiving the award, Ms. Zuzanna Papierz is honoured for her work as coordinator of the binational German-Polish teacher training degree (a double degree), provided by the Universities of Greifswald and Szczecin. The degree course is the first of its kind in Germany and therefore the planning and introduction phases were subject to immense challenges. ‘Thanks to Ms. Papierz’s work in recent years, the two partner universities not only boast one of only very few cross-border teacher training degree courses, it is most probably the most innovative too. By introducing the degree course, we have established a new quality in the cooperation between the two countries in the field of education,’ explained Thomas Jenssen, Manager of the Office of the Rectorate at the University of Greifswald, in his laudatory speech.
Prof. Dr. Andreas Ohme, Head of the polenmARkT e.V. festival, added: ‘The degree course will make a considerable contribution towards the internationalisation of teacher training at the University of Greifswald. Furthermore, it is important to highlight that the long-lasting collaboration between the Universities of Greifswald and Szczecin has now reached the next level.’
The binational German-Polish teacher training degree course has a joint curriculum, which is completed in part in Greifswald and in part in Szczecin. The programme is based around three subjects: Polish language and literature, German language and literature, and educational science and lasts a total of ten semesters. Cross-border mobility, bilingualism and intercultural competencies play a decisive role during studies as almost half of the degree course is completed at the respective partner university. Following successful completion of the degree course, students will receive two degrees: the Erste Staatsexamen für das Lehramt an Gymnasien des Landes Mecklenburg-Vorpommern (First State Examination for Teaching at Grammar Schools in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern) from the University of Greifswald; and the Licencjat and the Magister from the University of Szczecin. These degrees entitle graduates to work as teachers on either side of the border. The degree course was introduced in winter semester 2022/23.
Further Information
The advancement award honours contributions that have helped strengthen German-Polish relations. It is awarded for research performed by young scholars from all disciplines that is borne from German-Polish collaboration, or to individuals who have made an important contribution to German-Polish relations. The advancement award can also be awarded as a recognition of efforts to intensify the cooperation with Polish institutions at the University of Greifswald and at institutions directly linked to the university.
Binational German-Polish teacher training degree [de]
Media photo [de]
Contact at the University of Greifswald
Dr. Marek Fialek
Department of Slavonic Studies
Ernst-Lohmeyer-Platz 3, 17489 Greifswald
Tel.: +49 3834 420 3213
fimarcouni-greifswaldde
www.slawistik.uni-greifswald.de/en