DAAD Prize 2025 of the University of Kassel goes to Lina Baghdasaryan

Since 2018, the native Armenian has been the head of the German Café at the University of Kassel, which offers international students, refugees and interested parties free German lessons in an open atmosphere. During the coronavirus pandemic in particular, she created a digital space for exchange, community and language learning - making it one of the first fully digital offerings at the University of Kassel. Baghdasaryan had previously studied German language and literature at Yerevan State University, first as a Bachelor's student and then as a Master's student.

Baghdasaryan also works as a teacher at the Language Center, at the International Summer and Winter University and as a tutor and research assistant. She is also involved in the Europa-Kolleg Kassel.

Dr. Hans Grote, Head of the Department of Humanities and Cultural Studies, who nominated Liana Baghdasaryan for the award, explains: "Liana Baghdasaryan combines professional expertise with pedagogical skill and intercultural sensitivity. She stands for the values that the DAAD Prize honors: academic achievement, social commitment and dialogue between cultures."

The DAAD Prize, endowed with 1,000 euros, was presented by University President Prof. Dr. Ute Clement on October 6, 2025 as part of the welcome event for international students. With the support of the DAAD, the University of Kassel annually honors international students and doctoral candidates who distinguish themselves through outstanding academic achievements and social commitment at German universities.