This year, the award went to Avokpo Téyi Jean Mari Lawson, who has been pursuing his master’s degree with a focus on Power Systems Technology and Power Mechatronics at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology since the summer semester of 2024.

Mr. Lawson, who came to Germany from Togo in 2023, works as a research assistant at the Institute for Power Systems Technology and Power Mechatronics (EneSys). He particularly values the opportunity to support other students in this role. Due to his strong academic performance and high motivation, he was recommended for the DAAD Prize by Prof. Dr. Sourkounis and Tim Tölle — and with success.

In his laudatory speech, the head of the chair, Prof. Dr. Sourkounis, highlighted Mr. Lawson’s strong willingness to learn and his reliable preparation. He is especially pleased that Mr. Lawson promotes professional exchange with his focused questions and enriches the chair with his enthusiasm and commitment.

Mr. Lawson expressed his special gratitude to Prof. Dr. Sourkounis, the entire Institute for Power Systems Technology and Power Mechatronics, the ETIT Faculty, the DAAD, and the International Office of RUB. In addition to his studies, Mr. Lawson is also socially engaged through Brot für die Welt Jugend (Bread for the World Youth). His wish for the future is to build a bridge between science and society, so that scientific insights can contribute to developing solutions for societal challenges.

The award ceremony was embedded in a varied program that included welcoming remarks by Vice-Rector Prof. Dr. Kornelia Freitag, an introduction to DAAD funding opportunities, and a contribution from the DAAD Alumni & Friends Association, which aims to promote joint activities and international encounters. Afterwards, several international scholarship holders shared their experiences, their motivations for studying in Germany, the challenges of studying abroad, and the opportunities of intercultural exchange. During the concluding reception, all guests had the opportunity to engage in conversation.

The DAAD Prize also represents a gesture of appreciation for the international students of Ruhr University, who enrich academic life with their perspectives, experiences, and expertise. The ETIT Faculty and the Chair of Power Systems Technology and Power Mechatronics warmly congratulate Mr. Lawson on this well-deserved award.