Welcome to enGlobe_connect

To kick off the enGlobe_connect project, a delegation from THI traveled to Mexico and Colombia to strengthen cooperation with international partners and prepare for the joint student project.

The delegation included Professor Christian Sturm, Professor Ingrid Stahl, Professor Ignacio Álvarez, Markus Geisler, Dominik Bayerl, and Franziska Prinz.

In Mexico, meetings were held with the Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla and Volkswagen de México. During these meetings, the parties discussed potential areas of cooperation, joint research topics, and initial focus areas for the 2025 student project.

In Colombia, the delegation visited the Universidad Militar Nueva Granada in Bogotá. During discussions with faculty and researchers, areas of academic overlap were identified, laboratories were toured, and specific project ideas were further developed. Together with the partner university, the delegation also visited the Adidas Tech Hub, where practical tasks for the student project were defined.

The delegation also had the opportunity to meet the first group of Colombian students who, starting in September 2025, will be working alongside THI students on the project for the Adidas Tech Hub as part of the enGlobe_connect program.

The trip laid the foundation for close, practical cooperation with both partner universities.

As part of the enGlobe_connect project, students from the Ingolstadt University of Technology traveled to Puebla, Mexico, for a week in September 2025 to work on an international project together with students from the Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla. In addition to workshops and project work, the program also included cultural activities and excursions. These included visits to historical sites, insights into campus life, and discussions about cultural differences and similarities. 

More than just a study trip – What the students had to say:

“The exchange was simply wonderful. Getting to know so many incredibly kind people was a real treat. I was also impressed by the atmosphere and the way of life there; I felt much less stressed than usual, and yet we still got a lot done.”

“In terms of activities, wrestling was a real highlight—something totally new and simply fascinating. What was especially nice about the project was seeing how we worked together to find solutions, with new and great ideas constantly emerging along the way.”

“It was impressive how well we were able to communicate, even though we sometimes struggled to find the right words. When words weren’t enough, we just used our hands and feet to get our point across—and it worked like a charm.”

“I especially liked the impressive pyramids. The many cacti growing all over the city and the surrounding area also contribute to a very special atmosphere.”

“Mexican cuisine delighted us every single day, and we tried a different kind of taco every day.”

 

As part of the enGlobe_connect project, students from the Ingolstadt University of Technology visited their project partners at the Universidad Militar Nueva Granada in Bogotá, Colombia. The week-long visit marked the start of international collaboration within the project. In addition to workshops and intensive teamwork, the program offered numerous opportunities for personal interaction and for getting to know the local culture, campus life, and daily routines. A special highlight was the joint hike up Monserrate, during which the students were able to get to know each other better.

Experiencing International Collaboration – Voices of Our Students:

“Right from the start, I was struck by the incredible hospitality. From Colombian food and drinks to special snacks and traditions, the students gave us a comprehensive glimpse into their country.”

“Every mountain seems insurmountable at first when viewed from below, and the climb up Monserrate is no exception. But they say that those who conquer it together are meant for each other. Together with our Colombian friends and project partners, we climbed the 3,160 meters in elevation, reaching not only a summit but also the starting point of our joint project for Adidas. What a great start to the project!”

“I was particularly impressed by the fact that the Colombian students speak English very well, which made communication go very smoothly.”

“From a professional standpoint, the two groups complemented each other perfectly: We contribute expertise from the UX/UI perspective, while the others have significantly more technical know-how.”

“Our week in Bogotá was both productive and unforgettable.”

“Another highlight was our visit to the Adidas flagship store in Bogotá, which not only inspired us but also fostered a real sense of teamwork.”

“UNO quickly became the group’s favorite game—whether on the train, on campus, or even at the store, we’d always end up playing a round.”

International Collaboration in the Spotlight – Knowledge Transfer Event at THI:

The first phase of the international enGlobe_connect project was successfully concluded with a joint closing and transfer event held in January 2026 at Ingolstadt University of Applied Sciences.

Guests included students and faculty from the two partner universities as well as high-ranking dignitaries, including His Excellency Francisco Quiroga Fernández, Mexican Ambassador; Lennin Hernández Alarcón, Colombian Consul General; and Dr. Irma de Melo-Reiners, Executive Director of BayLat. A representative from Adidas Colombia also graced the event with his presence.

As part of the event, guests from partner universities spent a week in Ingolstadt. During their stay, they gained insights into research and teaching at THI, including visits to CARISSMA’s laboratories and research activities. The program also included cultural experiences, such as a city tour of Ingolstadt and joint leisure activities with THI students. The itinerary also included a trip to Nuremberg to visit the Adidas headquarters. In addition, our guests were introduced to the opportunities and programs offered by THI.

The highlight of the week was the major transfer event on January 14, 2026. During this event, students presented their project results, and the guests of honor gave speeches on the importance of international cooperation. 

THI President Walter Schober emphasized: “This high-profile visit demonstrates the importance that all parties involved attach to this collaboration. We look forward to further exchanges with Latin America and to welcoming students from the region.”

With the successful completion of its first project cycle, enGlobe_connect is laying the foundation for long-term mobility programs, international project work, and sustainable academic partnerships. Additional visits to Mexico, Colombia, and Ingolstadt are already planned and will strengthen THI’s international networking in research, teaching, and innovation.