Program supports highly qualified individuals with refugee backgrounds
On April 29, 2026, Goethe University hosted an event honoring the achievements of highly qualified individuals with refugee backgrounds. The occasion marked a milestone for the Academic Bridge Program (ABP), launched in summer 2025, as the university celebrated its first cohort of graduates.
“The Academic Bridge Program is a flagship initiative that offers support, perspective, and opportunity to refugees seeking to continue or begin their academic journey in Germany,” said Dr. Rebekka Göhring, Head of Academic and Global Affairs at Goethe University Frankfurt, at the ceremony held in the IG Farben Building. Addressing guests from academia and public life, she highlighted that the ABP sets new standards for a modern academic welcome culture in Hesse and beyond.
Dr. Göhring extended her thanks to the program’s partners and supporters. Among the guests were Marco Kaus from the Hessian Ministry for Science, Research, Art, and Culture, whose presence underscored the program’s importance for integrating highly qualified professionals in Hesse. She also acknowledged support from the European Union through the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF) and welcomed Anna-Maria Bruns and Peter Schmidt from the Giessen-based recognition authority.
The event also featured personal reflections from two alumnae, Zala Alami and Sofiia Dudchenko, who shared their experiences in the program. The ceremony concluded with the presentation of certificates by Dr. Rebekka Göhring and Program Director Dr. Julia Boger, accompanied by a musical performance from the Ukrainian duo NOVA.
Since its launch, the ABP has received 484 applications, admitted 174 participants, and supported 27 graduates to completion. These figures underscore both the strong demand for such initiatives and their importance in enabling international talent to contribute to society and the workforce.
Contact
Dr. Julia Boger
Project Manager | Academic Bridge Program
Goethe University Frankfurt
E-Mail: boger@uni-frankfurt.de
Tel. +49 (0)69 798 17297
