Dusseldorf, Germany – The IU International University of Applied Sciences (IU) has awarded its first IU Spirit Award, recognizing students on dual study programs who demonstrate innovation and commitment through their projects, theses, and initiatives. The award, presented for the first time in 2024, honors projects that excel in innovative strength, practical implementation, and the application of current research findings. Over 40 entries from 13 different degree programs were submitted for the IU Spirit Award this year.
The winner of the jury prize is Jonathan Siepmann, a dual student from Dusseldorf studying Mechanical Engineering. Siepmann received recognition for his project “LIFT Simulator,” in collaboration with TÜV Rheinland Industrie GmbH. The LIFT Simulator is a pioneering lift model that offers unique and practical training opportunities for lift maintenance specialists. It provides career changers with practical knowledge and training in realistic situations. The simulator also contributes to sustainability by facilitating training in the home office, reducing carbon dioxide emissions. Additionally, it can be used for cyber security tests to protect lift systems from cyber-attacks.
The audience prize went to Jasmin Saffari Esfahani and Elnara Valiyeva, graduates of the Social Work program. Their project, “I’m allowed to do that!,” focuses on educating fourth-grade pupils about their rights under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. The project uses interactive workshops that actively involve the children in the learning process through creative methods like role-playing games and radio plays. The workshop, developed in collaboration with educational director Prof. Dr. Kemal Bozay, has already been implemented at six primary schools in Cologne.
The IU Spirit Award aims to recognize students who demonstrate their innovative spirit and commitment through their projects, campaigns, and theses. It was established in honor and memory of former IU Vice-Rector Prof. Dr. Patrick Geus. The jury, consisting of professors from different disciplines, evaluates the submissions based on innovation, creativity, and practical orientation. The award is planned to be presented annually, with a jury award and an audience award.
Dual study programs at IU provide students with the opportunity to gain practical experience in addition to theoretical lectures and seminars. Students can apply their knowledge directly into practice through weekly rotations or split-week models. The theoretical part of the study program can be completed on-campus or online.
The IU Spirit Award reflects IU’s commitment to fostering innovation and practical application among its dual study program students. By recognizing their exceptional projects, the university encourages students to continue pushing boundaries and making valuable contributions to their respective fields.