International Onboarding Program aims to help Indian students study and build a STEM career in Germany

GWT (Society for Knowledge and Technology Transfer)—a German organisation which specialises in knowledge and technology transfer between industry, research and academia—has launched an International Onboarding Program (IOP) to prepare students from abroad, especially India, for STEM studies and career opportunities in Saxony, Germany. 

The IOP supports students who wish to pursue bachelor’s or master’s degrees in STEM fields at state-run, government-funded universities in Saxony. It also offers a tailored pathway for working professionals. The programme—which aims to address the growing demand for skilled STEM professionals—ensures a smooth transition into professional and academic life, and daily living in Germany. 

Developed in close collaboration with Dresden University of Technology (TUD) and other Saxon government-funded universities, the IOP focuses on early preparation and guided onboarding for young international STEM talent.

The programme, spanning up to 18 months, comprises German language training (up to Level C1) along with regulatory preparation and training in soft skills, communication, intercultural competence, academic preparation for STEM studies, and orientation to life, society and administration in Germany. It also offers support in visa, accommodation, and university applications.

The onboarding programme is set to commence in April/May 2026. Students may participate in the programme online or on-site.

The Saxon Science Liaison Office in Chennai will support GWT in local coordination, outreach activities, and strengthening Indo-German academic and industrial relations.

Since teaching at Saxon government-funded universities is conducted in German, the language training aims to equip students not only for academic success but also for everyday interactions—from navigating public offices to handling daily errands.

The programme includes cultural and social orientation, helping students understand German social norms and expectations, rights and responsibilities, basic legal and administrative processes, academic structures and university systems, and how to integrate confidently into a new environment. 

Professor Dr Jacques Rohayem, Managing Director/CEO of GWT and Executive Board Member, TUDAG (Joint Stock Company of TU Dresden), recently led IOP’s roadshow in Chennai and Bengaluru, meeting students, principals, institutions and parents to introduce the programme and its long-term opportunities.

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Innovation and job-readiness 

According to Prof Rohayem, education and innovation are central pillars in Saxony, and graduates of Saxon government-funded universities will benefit from strong career prospects—especially in key sectors such as semiconductors, microelectronics, and advanced manufacturing and engineering, where Saxony is a leading European hub.

Prof Rohayem says, “Nearly 30% of all European microchips will be manufactured in Saxony starting 2027. A major semiconductor hub is emerging here, alongside the new German Center for Astrophysics and a growing innovation cluster in chemistry. To meet the technological and scientific challenges arising from these developments, we are actively looking for international talent.”

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Prof Dr Jacques Rohayem, Managing Director/CEO of GWT and Executive Board Member, TUDAG (Joint Stock Company of TU Dresden) I Photo credit: Tobias Ritz

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He continues, “India is a highly relevant partner in this effort, given its strong educational foundation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. To identify, engage and support young talent from India who can contribute to these cutting-edge fields, we have established the International Onboarding Program.”

Job-readiness is at the core of the onboarding programme, and GWT aims to draw from its long-standing partnerships with the industry in this regard. 

GWT, Prof Rohayem says, has worked closely with the industry for nearly 30 years as a trusted partner for applied research, innovation and technology transfer. “We have deep connections to the companies that drive the region’s economic strength. The IOP is not only about earning a bachelor’s or master’s degree—it is ultimately about preparing young talents for successful careers in industry.”

GWT also collaborates closely with all major government-funded universities and universities of applied sciences in Saxony, including TU Dresden, TU Chemnitz, TU Bergakademie Freiberg, and HTW Dresden – University of Applied Sciences. 

Tailored pathways

IOP offers three pathways for international STEM talent: 

• Pathway for students who plan to pursue a bachelor’s degree (B.Sc.) at Saxon government-funded universities
• Pathway for master’s students (M.Sc) who already hold a STEM bachelor’s degree and aim to continue their academic education in Germany 
• Pathway for qualified STEM professionals who plan to work in Germany

All three tracks will offer structured German language training aligned with academic or professional goals; intercultural and self-management skills, academic/career orientation, and guidance through key administrative and transition processes. 

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Photo credit: Crispin Iven Mokry

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“Through the IOP, we equip students with self-management skills, cultural awareness and the academic foundations they need for their future careers. When they arrive in Germany, they are well prepared—ready to navigate daily life, integrate smoothly and have a positive, meaningful experience. It is a unique opportunity, and one that must be implemented responsibly and thoughtfully.

“We are looking for excellent young people who are genuinely interested in Germany—its language, its culture, and its way of life. We want to offer them the opportunity to grow, to engage with German society, and to develop their full potential,” says Prof Rohayem. 

At the same time, Germany is also interested in India and Indian culture, he emphasises. 

“Our vision is to enrich Indian students with our culture and, equally, to be enriched by theirs. The IOP aims to foster cultural exchange and mutual understanding. We want to get to know them, and we want them to get to know us. Ultimately, it is about building friendships.”