RSU signs Memorandum of Understanding to establish branch in Germany

A Memorandum of Understanding to establish a branch in the German city of Stade was signed between Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU) and Elbe Kliniken Stade (EKS) on 1 September. The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by the Rector of RSU Professor Aigars Pētersons and Professor Holger Schmidt, Head of the Neurology Clinic of EKS, who is the coordinator of the cooperation project from Germany.

The German delegation also included Martin Grasselli, Manager of the EKS Hospital, and Sebastian Philipp, Chief Medical Director of the Internal Medicine Clinic (Cardiology and Intensive Care).

The cooperation with the German clinic started two years ago, and several groups of 6th year students of RSU Faculty of Medicine have had their placement there. The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding provides for a new, much closer level of cooperation, as a RSU branch will be established in Stade in cooperation with Elbe Clinic, where medical students, starting from the 4th year, will not only undergo placement at the hospital, but also participate in the full study process, including practical classes. The first group of RSU 4th year students already started their training in EKS a few days ago as part of the pilot project.

'RSU currently has eight clinical study centres in Germany, where students are improving their knowledge and skills. The cooperation with Stade Clinic is a glimpse into the future that promotes the mobility of students and teaching staff.

It offers new opportunities for research and modernisation of study programmes, integrating the best experience of Western European partners,' emphasised RSU Rector prof. Aigars Pētersons.

In order to create a modern RSU branch, the Stade Clinic plans to develop its infrastructure by building premises for classrooms and a hall of residence for RSU students. 

'We are well aware of the high reputation of Rīga Stradiņš University and its success in developing education export, so we see the agreement to establish a branch in Stade as a significant achievement,'

Professor Holger Schmidt said.

During the visit, the German partners got acquainted with the RSU campus, visited the Anatomy Theatre, the Anatomy Museum, the Medical Education Technology Centre, and the clinical study centre at the East University Hospital.