Freie Universität Berlin India & South Asia Office along with the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in New Delhi organized a meeting on July 10th, 2025 in honor of the visit of Ms. Franziska Giffey, Mayor of Berlin and Senator for Economic Affairs, Energy and Public Enterprises. Four FU Alumni - Dr. Amit Prakash, Dr Shilpi Gupta, Mr. Arnab Mandal and Ms. Apoorva Sharma - participated in the event. They shared their experiences from their time in Berlin and relived the nostalgic memories of the time they spent at FU, and how this experience has shaped their careers in India. Ms. Giffey asked them about their favorite spots in Berlin and invited them to visit Berlin again.

Ms. Vibhuti Sukhramani, Head of the FU India & South Asia Office spoke about the role of the regional office and activities in India, and how it has been a bridge between Berlin and India in connecting researchers, partners, students and alumni. The significance of being present with an office in Delhi was emphasized. Mr. Apoorv Mahendru, Deputy Director & Head of Marketing at DAAD India and Ms. Aadishree Jamkhedkar, Head of Programs at the German Center for Research and Innovation, DWIH New Delhi were also part of the meeting and informed the delegation about the Indian higher education system and research system.

The networking dinner gave the delegation opportunity to meet with a few start-ups, as well as Department of Science and Technology and Government of India officials and other distinguished members of the trade and academic community.