The aim of the DAAD ISAP programme is to promote sustainable cooperation between German and international universities. The focus is particularly on student and lecturer exchanges in order to promote the internationalisation of the participating institutions. Important programme content includes the development of joint curricula, the agreement of credit transfer rules and the preparation of double degrees. The programme promotes digital transformation and urban future topics and is part of the Potsdam University of Applied Sciences' profile line.

Funding and target groups
The DAAD has been supporting the partnership between the Potsdam University of Applied Sciences and Taipei since 2018. Students from the Bachelor's and Master's degree programmes in Interfacedesign (B.A.) and Design (M.A.) are supported for a stay at Taipei Tech. The renewed funding of EUR 220,000 will finance at least 24 full scholarships for a 5-month stay of FHP students in Taipei until mid-2028. Teaching staff from both universities will also be supported with additional funding for international teaching projects such as summer schools.

Taiwan as a pioneer of digital transformation
Taiwan, known for its highly developed technology sector, offers students at FH Potsdam a unique opportunity to familiarise themselves with pioneering technologies and their application in everyday life. Taiwan has already produced numerous innovations, particularly in the areas of smart cities, e-mobility, ambient assisted living, e-health and e-security. At the same time, the stay in Taiwan makes it possible to look at the social and cultural implications of these technological developments from a new perspective, particularly with regard to issues such as data protection and privacy.

Mutual benefits for students and lecturers
The exchange not only offers design students the opportunity to acquire intercultural skills, but also to gain practical insights into future technologies and their use. Conversely, the students from Taiwan benefit from the practical, interdisciplinary orientation of the design degree programmes in Potsdam. They gain a deep insight into the socio-economic framework and design processes in Germany and Europe, which is a great advantage for their further professional development.

The partnership thus contributes to strengthening the international networks of both universities and supports the students in their academic and personal development.