For his outstanding academic achievements and social commitment, Mr. Emrick Chatlin Nguekeu De Mofo was awarded the DAAD Prize 2023. The prize is awarded annually to international students at the Hochschule Niederrhein in recognition of outstanding achievements and exceptional commitment. The distinction, worth 1,000 euros, was presented to the 25-year-old during the Senate Award Ceremony at the university.

For his Bachelor's studies at the Faculty of Mechanical and Process Engineering, Emrick Chatlin Nguekeu De Mofo came from Cameroon to Germany in 2018 and deepened his German language skills before starting his studies. He is currently in his third semester studying in the Master's degree programme in mechatronics. "I noticed his excellent academic achievements and deep understanding of mechanics. He completed his bachelor's degree with a grade of 1.7, and he received a 1.0 for his thesis," says Prof. Dr. Jaan Unger, professor of technical mechanics and mathematics for engineers.

"We are also recognizing your great commitment today. At the university, you are a tutor for mathematics. In doing so, you have not only shown initiative and a high degree of social competence, but have also played a significant role in the design of digital learning opportunities in the pandemic," said Prof. Dr. Marion Halfmann, the university's internationalization officer, at the award ceremony. In addition, the award winner volunteers as a tutor at EduCareerMento, where he provides tutoring in mathematics. "I want to make it possible for others to achieve their goals," the 25-year-old says.

"The award is a great honor for me," says Emrick Chatlin Nguekeu De Mofo. When asked what gave him the energy to achieve such an outstanding performance, he said, "I worked very hard and had a lot of discipline to achieve my goals. I was able to attend a very good school in Cameroon and my family was very supportive. I also thank my professor, Dr. Unger."

The prize money is financed by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). The award winner is selected internally at the university. The DAAD award helps to put faces to international students at German universities and connect them with their stories. Each and every international student takes a piece of Germany back to his or her home country and leaves something of him or herself behind here - an enrichment for both sides.