"To be awarded the DAAD prize for outstanding achievements is a high recognition by the world's largest funding organization for the international exchange of university staff and students. Especially in times of renationalization and protectionism, foreign students play a crucial role in contributing to understanding and cooperation on a global level. In this sense, I congratulate our award winner, Mrs. Landaverde Tejada, and wish her every success for her upcoming graduation," explained Rector Prof. Dr. Winfried Lieber.

Normally the presentation of the prize, which has been awarded nationwide since 1995, for the social, societal or university-internal commitment of international students that goes beyond good academic performance is made during the university celebration in autumn, but due to Corona, this is not possible this year. "The smaller framework this time, did not diminish however the acknowledgment, which is connected with this price, explained the Laudatorin, Professor Anne Najderek.

Born in El Salvador, Elsa Nohemy Landaverde Tejada had already been involved in a variety of social projects in her home country during her bachelor's studies, for example in founding a student organization that supports a public school with remedial courses for students and in motivating children, in organizing book and clothing donations, or in organized debating classes in a high school. Her Bachelor's degree in "Economics and Business" was followed by eight years of work experience with an insurance company, where she was responsible for Central and Latin America internationally. In 2019, the now 33-year-old came to Gengenbach, where she has since completed the international Master's program "International Business Consulting" (IBC). There Elsa Nohemy Landaverde Tejada willingly supported her fellow students from the very beginning and was committed to their successful studies. She organized learning groups, worked out their content with her fellow students and was active in the study commission and as course spokesperson for the study program. During the Corona pandemic, she worked to promote cohesion and cooperation among her fellow students, and also became involved as a harvest worker.

"With your academic achievements, but also with your social, societal and university-internal commitment, you are leaving a valuable mark on us," said Professor Anne Najderek and presented the El Salvadorian with the award certificate. "You have demonstrated the intention of the prize, especially in Corona times, with your commitment to cohesion among your fellow students," Rector Lieber also congratulated the prize winner.

"It is an honor for me to accept the award at Offenburg University of Applied Sciences. I owe this success above all to my family. I feel even more obliged to contribute to solving social problems", explained Elsa Nohemy Landaverde Tejada and added: "Education has the power to change lives positively".

DAAD

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is a joint institution of German universities. It uses public funds to promote international academic cooperation, especially the exchange of students and scientists.