From 26 May to 1 June 2024, a delegation consisting of representatives from Technical University of Moldova, “Alecu Russo” State University of Balti, “Bogdan Petriceicu Hasdeu” State University of Cahul, Transilvania University of Brasov, together with representatives from Fritz Dräxlmaier GmbH & Co. KG from Germany and ICS DRA Dräxlmaier Automotive SRL from the Republic of Moldova, participated in a study visit to RWTH Aachen University in Germany, within the Erasmus+ KA2 project “Enhancing Mechanical Engineering Education in Moldova for Industry 4.0” (NEEDEDU4.0).
This visit was a unique opportunity to explore the academic excellence of RWTH Aachen University – one of the most prestigious technical universities in Europe, renowned for its excellence in engineering sciences. Participants had the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the latest trends in the field of mechanical engineering and establish valuable connections with students and professors from EU countries. During the visit, participants had the opportunity to visit the five-walled immersive virtual reality installation AixCAVE, located in the IT Centre of RWTH Aachen University.
This state-of-the-art facility offers a unique virtual reality experience, contributing to the development of innovative projects in various technical fields. They also visited the Biomechanics and Nano CT labs, the Centre of Excellence for Continuing Education for international students RWTH International Academy and the WZL Production Site – an important component of the Laboratory for Machine Tools and Production Technology (WZL).
These visits gave participants the opportunity to see practical demonstrations and interact with experts in the field of mechanical engineering. Lectures and seminars complemented the study visit experience, providing an insight into how subjects are taught at RWTH Aachen University, the resources available to students and the modern facilities in lecture and seminar rooms. This experience highlighted the importance of innovative teaching methods and the use of advanced technologies in engineering education. The study visit to RWTH Aachen University had a significant impact on the participants, giving them a valuable insight into how mechanical engineering is taught and practiced at a world-leading university. It also contributed to strengthening relations between RWTH Aachen University and higher education institutions in the Republic of Moldova, including TUM, paving the way for new collaborative projects in education and research.
The study visit to RWTH Aachen University was a rich and fruitful experience within the NEEDEDU4.0 project, contributing to improving the quality of mechanical engineering education in the Republic of Moldova and preparing students to face the challenges and opportunities of Industry 4.0. Strengthening international relations and adopting best practices in education and research are important steps in the development of a competitive educational system adapted to modern requirements.
