07-06-2026

WFI 2026 Summer School: Innovation meets responsibility

In early July this year, the WFI Summer School transformed the Ingolstadt-Eichstätt region and Munich into an exciting research hub for sustainable future topics for one week. 72 students – including 34 from the KU and 38 from partner universities in India, Greece, Lithuania, and Italy – came together to explore how technology, environmental sustainability, and entrepreneurial thinking can positively shape the economy and society. Lecturers from the KU, as well as international lecturers from Poland, Romania, and Italy, guided the participants through an intensive program.

Academic depth and creative practice

The week started off with specialization modules ranging from “Harnessing the Power of AI” to “Sustainable Entrepreneurship.” The afternoons were filled with case studies, creative design challenges, and controversial discussions. A key component was the required module “Responsible Innovation in Firms & Society”, which encouraged students to reflect on the complex tension field between economic success and ethical responsibility. In addition to the opportunity to earn up to ten ECTS credits, participants particularly valued the interdisciplinary exchange, which opened up new academic perspectives.

Spotlight on Eichstätt: Discovering administrative potential in urban spaces

Summer school in Ingolstadt also means that learning doesn't just take place in the lecture hall. So on Thursday, there was a special highlight on the schedule: a field trip to Eichstätt. A walking tour of the Baroque old town was about more than just sightseeing. As part of a practical challenge, participants were required to identify local public administrative tasks, analyze them structurally, and highlight opportunities for innovative improvement. They were divided into a total of twelve teams and competed against each other.

Practical connection and global networking

Another highlight of the week was the business field trip to Munich on Friday, where the teams saw how responsible innovation is put into practice on a large scale. In the evenings, there was plenty of opportunity for networking – Bavarian-style – from social gatherings in the beer garden to the farewell party organized by the students. This is how friendships and connections were made that will surely last beyond the Summer School.

Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Program as a basis

Implementation of the program was made possible by the Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Program, which combines online preparation with an intensive on-campus phase followed by a reflection period.

Text and image: Melena Renner ; English translation: Sylvia Schmager