Kassel University's 2026 DAAD Prize Goes to Letícya Sousa de Aquino Guedes

The University of Kassel is awarding the 2026 DAAD Prize to Letícya Sousa de Aquino Guedes, a master’s student in the “Global Political Economy and Development” (GPED) program. She is receiving the award for her outstanding academic achievements, her wide-ranging social engagement, and her commitment to intercultural exchange on campus.

University President Prof. Dr. Ute Clement (right) and Prof. Dr. Aram Ziai, program director of the master’s program in Global Political Economy and Development (left), congratulate Letícya Sousa de Aquino Guedes on receiving the 2026 DAAD Prize. — Delighted to receive the award (from left to right): Prof. Dr. Aram Ziai (Program Director of the Master’s program in Global Political Economy and Development), award recipient Letícya Sousa de Aquino Guedes, and University President Prof. Dr. Ute Clement.

A native of Brazil, she has been studying in the Department of Social Sciences since the 2024–25 winter semester. In addition to her excellent academic performance, she serves as a tutor, helping international students get started with academic work. Since the students in the master’s program come from all over the world and have diverse backgrounds, she has made a valuable contribution in this area. As the student representative for her class, she also advocates for her fellow students’ interests in discussions with faculty members.

Commitment to Diversity and Equal Opportunity

Sousa de Aquino Guedes contributes her special intercultural commitment to the program’s awareness initiative. There, she actively advocates for an inclusive university where all students can study free from discrimination, regardless of gender, background, or sexual orientation. With her proficiency in four languages—Portuguese, Spanish, English, and German—she significantly enriches the dialogue on campus.

Dr. Anil Shah, a research associate in the Department of Development Policy and Postcolonial Studies, who nominated Letícya Sousa de Aquino Guedes for the award, emphasizes: “Ms. Sousa de Aquino Guedes does not focus solely on her own academic success but takes responsibility for others. Her commitment to non-discrimination and diversity impressively demonstrates how scholarship and political engagement go hand in hand. Especially in times like these, when authoritarianism and racism are on the rise, we need such voices at our university.”

Honored During Welcome Week

The DAAD Prize, worth 1,000 euros, was presented on October 5, 2026, by University President Prof. Dr. Ute Clement during the welcome event for new international students. With support from the DAAD, the University of Kassel annually honors international students and doctoral candidates who have distinguished themselves through outstanding academic achievements and social engagement at German universities.