Successful study trip: Our students experience IT and culture in India

Since 2009, the India Gateway Program study trip to our partner university, Christ University in Bangalore, has been an integral part of the academic year. The last excursion took place in 2020, followed by three years in which we could not travel due to the coronavirus pandemic, among other things. This year, the time had finally come again: 17 students could spend two weeks in India under the leadership of the designated Dean of Studies, Prof. Dr. Isabel John, Prof. Dr. Peter Braun (International Affairs Officer), and Philipp Väth (Research Assistant).

The intensive collaboration with the Indian students began in November. Projects and applications on the topic of IT & sustainability were planned and implemented in mixed teams of five. First in virtual collaboration, then on-site in India. This resulted in a deep intercultural understanding and many a friendship. A special highlight: as almost every team had a member who will also be spending a semester abroad with us in the summer semester, there will be a reunion.

In the second week, we visited several companies (Infosys in Mysore, SAP, Bosch and Himalaya in Bangalore). We found out about their products, current technological developments such as generative artificial intelligence and sustainability strategies.

In addition to the academic and industrial experiences, the students were also able to experience the rich culture of India and gain intercultural experience. Sightseeing tours in Bangalore and Mysore and a visit to a village in Hoskote, supported by Christ University, provided a perfect opportunity to learn about the history and traditions of India and find a balance in the intense academic program.

The excursion to India was and is an important building block in the internationalization of our faculty. It is open to students from all Bachelor's degree programs in the Faculty of Computer Science and Business Information Systems, preferably from the third semester. The faculty and BayIND generously support the excursion.