Communication in focus: UFV and the University of Münster exchange ideas during UFV's third visit of 2026

How does a large German university communicate internally and externally? What structures and channels does it use to effectively reach its various target groups, and how are these communication strategies perceived? These were the key questions addressed during the visit of Ms Monique Bertto, Director of Institutional Communication at the Federal University of Viçosa (UFV), to the University of Münster on 24 September 2026. The aim of the one-day exchange was to learn about the partner university's communication work, share best practices and gain fresh impetus both for her own work in Viçosa and for the future of the cooperation between the two universities.

The visit kicked off at the University of Münster's Communication and Public Relations Office. During a discussion with Norbert Robers, Director of the Office and Press Officer, and Dr Kathrin Kottke, the Deputy Head and Science Editor, the representatives from both universities gained mutual insight into each other's communication strategies and structures. The conversation highlighted the broad scope of tasks involved, as well as the parallels and differences in the communication work of the two partner universities, despite the thousands of kilometres separating them. In a dynamic exchange of experiences, the participants discussed topics such as day-to-day organisation, the use of different media and channels, and how to engage specific target groups. Above all, the exchange aimed to promote international professional dialogue, strengthen institutional relations and build bridges between academic and operational cooperation.

During her visit, the representative from Viçosa gained a deeper understanding of why Münster is recognised as a city of science. Dr Erik Tolen from the City of Münster's Science Office (Münster Marketing) showed how collaboration between the city and the university comes to life through initiatives such as 'Kneipenscience' (science in pubs) and 'SchlauRaum' (a science space for children). In his presentation, Dr Tolen emphasised that, together, the city and the university create fertile ground for science communication.

Ms Bertto also had the opportunity to learn about the communication work of the Brazil Centre at the University of Münster and to discuss with the team how bilateral cooperation could be strengthened further in this area. A conversation with early-career researchers from UFV and the University of São Paulo (USP) who have completed, or are currently undertaking, a research stay in Münster in 2026 also provided valuable insights. Drawing on their own perspectives, they described how they receive information through the various communication channels of the two universities. A guided city tour in mild, sunny weather rounded off the day.

The third visit from UFV took the cooperation to a new and complementary level. The exchanges in 2026 were based on fundamental pillars of cooperation and helped to deepen them further: from administration and research to supporting early-career researchers and communication work. Overall, it became clear that the partnership has developed significantly. Ms Bertto has left valuable impetus at the university and in the city of Münster, while taking new ideas back to Viçosa. These will not only enrich her own work but also contribute to further strengthening the partnership in the field of communication.

The visit is the result of an intensive process of exchange between the two universities in 2026. In February, the University of Münster welcomed three members of UFV's administrative staff as part of a Staff Mobility stay. This was followed in May by a visit from the Vice-Rector for Research and Graduate Studies, Prof. Dr Raul Narciso Guedes, and the Director of the International Office, Prof. Dr Vladimir di Iorio. With the focus now on communication, a further and potentially decisive area for this vibrant partnership has come into view.