Development of a Sister University Concept

Abstract

The mission of FHNW Business School is to “... educate innovative and responsible managers for a networked and dynamic world”. Going one step further, a novel concept which goes under the name of “Sister University” could deepen the relationship between two universities such that the universities benefit from the other through mutual exchange. International collaboration contributes to economic welfare through knowledge sharing and exchange of information. The current form of university partnership allows frequent communication, but does not provide students with additional opportunities to engage with foreign institutes. This master thesis therefore suggests, that by implementing the novel concept of "Sister University", new ways of collaboration can be offered to students, lecturers/researchers and school staff, using a bottom-up approach that enhances and sustains the relationship and friendship between two universities. For the development of the Sister University this thesis reviewed the Sister City concept to derive similarities. Based on the analysis this thesis wants to determine what component can be applied to a Sister University. For the development of the novel concept the focus is set on University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland (FHNW) and the Shenzhen Technology University (SZTU)….