German U15
Jan. 22, 2025, 02:30 PM - Jan. 23, 2025, 06:00 PM
International Science & Policy Symposium (ISPS): Navigating Global Responsibility - How Research-Intensive Universities Strengthen Societies
The International Science & Policy Symposium (ISPS) is an influential gathering of leading academics, policymakers, and international experts aimed at addressing some of the most pressing global challenges. The ISPS will take place January 22-23, 2025 in Hanover.
In a world facing geopolitical tensions, threats to the liberal-democratic order, climate change, and the ethical challenges posed by artificial intelligence, universities are uniquely positioned to contribute to building prosperous, sustainable and democratic societies. Through world-class research, educating future leaders, fostering innovation, and providing critical spaces for reflection and dialogue, research-intensive universities play a central role in shaping the future. The International Science & Policy Symposium (ISPS) will explore how universities can meet these responsibilities through five key focal areas:
- 1. Research & Innovation: Excellence in research, innovation, and global talent mobility
- 2. Geopolitics: Changing geopolitical landscapes and its risks for research and education
- 3. Sustainability & Security: Sustaining human life on earth through higher education: How universities contribute to food security
- 4. Universities as just institutions: Advancing equity, diversity and inclusion
- 5. Universities as spaces of open discourse: The state of academic freedom and free speech on campus
The program will include moderated panel discussions with experts from science and politics, drawing from the outcomes of three Canadian-German working groups on geopolitics, sustainability, and EDI established in 2024. Participants will engage in dynamic exchanges through panel discussions, Q & A sessions, and networking opportunities during the event. Parallel rooms will be provided for bilateral meetings and matchmaking sessions during lunch and coffee breaks, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing. This symposium offers a unique platform to discuss how universities worldwide can collaborate to strengthen societies in a time of global uncertainty.
Registration & Language
Registration is only possible for invited guests. The symposium language is English.
Organisers
The symposium is organised by U15 Canada, German U15 and the Volkswagen Foundation. 
Contact details of the Volkswagen Foundation:
Do you have questions about our scientific events? Check out our FAQ!
FAQ scientific events
Where do the Volkswagen Foundation events take place?
The events take place at the Xplanatorium Herrenhausen Palace, Herrenhäuser Straße 5, 30419 Hanover. Access by public transport: Üstra lines 4 and 5, stop 'Herrenhäuser Gärten'
How do I get to the Xplanatorium Herrenhausen?
- by public transport: tram lines 4 and 5, bus line 136: stop "Herrenhäuser Gärten" or "Schaumburgstraße".
- by bike: There are bike racks in front of the Xplanatorium. E-bike batteries should be taken into the building and not left on the bike.
- by car: The Xplanatorium is located within Hanover's environmental zone. Motor vehicles are only allowed to drive in the low emission zone with a green fine dust sticker. Parking spaces (with parking fee) are available at the "Great Garden".
- by train: Hanover main station is excellently connected through many long-distance trains from all over Germany and in some cases from other European countries.
- by plane: Please check whether a flight can be replaced by a train connection. Hanover Airport is directly connected to the S-Bahn network in the greater Hanover area. Please take the S5 towards Paderborn or Bad Pyrmont from the airport to get to the city center.
How much are the fees for participating at academic events?
There are no registration fees for participating at conferences, symposia or academic workshops.
When can I check in and get my name tag at the venue?
You can check in 60 minutes before the event begins.
Is the venue barrier-free?
The Xplanatorium Herrenhausen is barrier-free.
Are the academic events recorded or broadcast live (streaming)?
As a rule, academic events are not recorded or broadcast live (streaming) in order to enable the participants to talk about research results that have not yet been published and to obtain corresponding feedback.
I wish to attend an academic event as member of the audience. Who will cover my travel and accommodation costs and do the necessary bookings?
The participants bear the costs for travel and accommodation themselves. We ask all participants without an active part to take care of their own hotel and travel arrangements. If we provide a contingent of rooms at a specific hotel, you will find more information on the respective event pages.
I am a speaker, chair, or travel grantee at an academic event. Who will cover my travel and accommodation costs and do the necessary bookings?
Please get in touch with the respective contact person for the event. You can find the contact details on the website for the event.
Are food preferences and/or intolerances taken care of?
They are usually taken care of. Please indicate your preferences when registering for the event. Catering/Meals at Volkswagen Foundation events are all vegetarian with several vegan options.
Is there a cloakroom?
At Volkswagen Foundation events held at the Xplanatorium Herrenhausen, you are welcome to use our cloakroom free of charge.
I lost or forgot something at an event at the Xplanatorium, whom can I contact?
Please contact Schloss Herrenhausen Veranstaltungs- und Betriebs GmbH at: +49 511-763 744-0
Who can I contact if I have further questions?
If you have any questions, you can reach our hotline from Mon-Fri 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at +59 511 8381-200