image: ESMT Berlin, Mannheim Business School, WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management joined forces to bring greater international attention to Germany as a destination for science and education.
Credit: ESMT Berlin, Mannheim Business School, WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management
ESMT Berlin, Mannheim Business School, and WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management have joined forces to bring greater international attention to Germany as a destination for science and education. Germany stands for stability, democracy, and intellectual openness, especially in contrast to the changing political and social conditions in other parts of the world. Against this backdrop, the three institutions aim to speak with a unified voice and purposefully strengthen international interest in studying, researching, and exchanging ideas in Germany.
ESMT Berlin, Mannheim Business School, and WHU are non-profit institutions that share a strong set of common values. Consistently ranked among Europe’s top business schools, internationally accredited, and backed by an extensive network of companies, partner universities, research institutions, and accomplished alumni, they exemplify excellence in education and combine academic rigor with practical relevance in their research. With the internationally oriented initiative “Say JA to Germany,” the three business schools are pursuing a coordinated external communications strategy and a unified public positioning for the first time. Planned activities include joint public relations and media contributions in national and international outlets, a coordinated social media campaign featuring testimonials from alumni, students, and faculty, as well as joint appearances at international education fairs.
“Germany attracts international students with its excellent teaching, English-language programs, and clear career prospects,” says Jörg Rocholl, president of ESMT Berlin. “The country’s attractive framework conditions make it particularly appealing to those facing uncertainties elsewhere.”
Christian Andres, dean of WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management, adds, “As institutions of higher education, we bear a special responsibility to create spaces where critical thinking, academic integrity, and intercultural exchange are not only possible, but explicitly encouraged and supported. In times of global uncertainty, this is more important than ever. That’s why our joint initiative, which highlights Germany’s strengths as a place for study and research, matters so much.”
As part of the “Say JA to Germany” initiative, the three institutions aim to emphasize the advantages of studying in Germany on the international stage. In their view, these include affordable, high-quality study programs, reliable structures for education, career entry, and everyday life, clear legal frameworks, and a guaranteed commitment to academic freedom.
Joachim Lutz, dean and president of Mannheim Business School, concludes, “With this alliance, we are sending a clear signal together: Germany is an excellent home for international students, as we stand for the highest quality, open-mindedness, and outstanding opportunities beyond higher education. We warmly welcome international students to Germany.”