As part of the Saar-Ukraine University Network (SUUN): Overcoming Borders for a EUropean Future project, the second call for applications for the SUUN Training Course (SUUN-TC) 2027 is now open. The professional development program aims to strengthen strategic leadership at Ukrainian universities through international cooperation and knowledge exchange.

The project is implemented by Saarland University with the support of the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and funded by the German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space.

Vice-Rectors, Deans, Vice-Deans, and representatives of Ukrainian universities holding similar strategic academic leadership positions are invited to apply. Candidates must be employed at a Ukrainian university accredited by the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine and demonstrate strong motivation for international collaboration and institutional reform.

The SUUN-TC 2027 consists of four phases:

·         January-February 2027 – online phase: orientation webinar and introduction to the Strategic Action Plan (SAP);

·         April 2027 – six-day on-site training at Saarland University in Saarbrücken focusing on internationalization, human resource management, and quality management;

·         June-July 2027 – thematic online webinars and SAP coaching sessions;

·         October-November 2027 – online SAP presentations and soft skills workshops.

The working language of the program is English, with some sessions conducted in Ukrainian.

Participation in the program is free of charge for selected representatives of Ukrainian higher education institutions.

A DAAD scholarship is provided to support participation in the on-site training in Saarbrücken and includes:

·         EUR 350 for travel and related expenses;

·         EUR 96 per day as an accommodation allowance for the duration of the on-site phase, in accordance with DAAD regulations.

Applicants are required to submit:

·         a completed application form;

·         a motivation letter of up to 500 words;

·         an organizational chart of their university indicating the applicant’s position and role within the institutional structure;

·         a letter of support from the university leadership (Rector);

·         an English proficiency certificate, if available (recommended).

Shortlisted candidates may be invited to an online interview to verify their English language proficiency and motivation.

Application deadline: 10 October 2026.

Detailed information and application.

An online information session will be held on 21 September 2026 at 12:00 Kyiv time, during which the organizers will present the SUUN-TC 2027 program, explain the participation requirements and application procedure, and answer questions from potential applicants.

Zoom link for the information session

Meeting ID: 883 9526 0851

Code: 1nxvKq

Attendance at the information session is optional; however, the organizers highly recommend participating to help candidates prepare a stronger application.

For questions regarding the call, please contact the project coordinators at Saarland University, Eva Nossem and Dr. Olha Polishchuk, at project-suun@uni-saarland.de.

International Relations Office