Following a virtual orientation week, 28 students from various agricultural colleges across Ukraine began their journey to Germany on May 13, 2025. Traveling by bus from Kyiv to Ulm, they were warmly welcomed by Ms. Tetiana Dettmer, Managing Director of AgrarKontakte International (AKI) e.V.

Upon arrival, the group explored the historic old town of Ulm and enjoyed a picnic beneath old trees at the barbecue area of the Ulm Youth Hostel – Geschwister-Scholl-Haus. The day offered more than just a cultural introduction – it brought relaxation, laughter, and the first personal connections. A visit to the famous Ulm Minster and the city center left lasting impressions. The evening ended in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, with informal exchanges and budding friendships with German youth groups staying at the hostel.

Later that evening, AKI staff met with the interns to review key documents and clarify important organizational details of the internship.

The official welcome event took place the following day, May 14, at the Hochschule für Gestaltung Ulm (HfG) – an architecturally remarkable site with an international legacy, originally founded as a renowned design school and now serving as a venue for events and cultural exchange.

Opening speeches were delivered by Mr. Hans-Benno Wichert, Chairman of the Board of AKI, Ms. Tetiana Dettmer, and Ms. Lesja Scherbakova, representing the Ukrainian partner institution from Kyiv. Following the welcome, the host farms were briefed in detail about their roles and responsibilities. Key documents, legal frameworks, and the structure of the internship were thoroughly discussed.

The event concluded with the official handover of the interns to their respective farms. A shared lunch and group photo provided a fitting close to the program.

Emotionally moved but full of anticipation, the 28 Ukrainian students then traveled on to their new homes and workplaces across southern Germany. Over the next six months, they will gain valuable, hands-on experience in various fields of German agriculture. AKI thanks all participating host families and wishes all participants a memorable, enriching time full of new experiences and inspiring intercultural encounters.