Smart Room EVROPA

On Excursion:  
The Smart Room EVROPA Visits the Gülpe Research Station  

The newly established Smart Room EVROPA has set an ambitious goal: to foster dialogue between students and experts, enriching the understanding of "Eastern Europe" and facilitating informed discussions about its challenges and crises. Nestled in the idyllic Westhavelland Nature Park, the University of Potsdam's research station provided an ideal setting for stimulating discussions, inspiring lectures, and informal exchanges.  

The Gülpe Research Station: Germany’s Darkest Spot  

For nearly 50 years, the "Hünemörderhof" near the village of Gülpe has been an important site for research and teaching. Potsdam scientists began their work on the former farmstead as early as 1975. Originally established for biological and ecological research, the station now also serves as a venue for interdisciplinary educational programs. Here, the recipients of the university scholarship (Germany Scholarship) found not only an inspiring space for discussions but also benefited from the seclusion and tranquility that allowed for deep engagement with complex topics. Known as the "darkest spot" in Germany, Gülpe offered participants an impressive view of the starry sky, far removed from city lights.  

The Gülpe Workshop: From Think Tank to Smart Room  

With the Translating EVROPA Think Tank, the University of Potsdam laid the foundation for an in-depth dialogue on "(Eastern) European" issues. This innovative format brought together students, university researchers, and experts to explore the cultural, political, and historical intricacies and conflict potential in the "Eastern European" region. The aim of the Think Tank was to bridge knowledge gaps and challenge prejudices about "Eastern Europe" from a Western perspective, questioning prevailing narratives and assessing the current situation. Key topics included the power dynamics between East and West and promoting direct dialogue with regional actors.  

The success of this format now leads to the next step: the Smart Room EVROPA.  

The Smart Room is envisioned as an interdisciplinary learning and meeting space where knowledge gaps—such as those surrounding the concept of "Eastern Europe"—can be addressed. The notion of "Eastern Europe" is open to various interpretations, influenced by historical political affiliations during the Cold War, shared cultures, and related languages, among others. Depending on the criteria applied, "Eastern Europe" might start at the German-German border, the borders with Poland and today’s Czech Republic, or even further east, distinct from a debated "Central European" realm.  

More Than a Learning Space: Gülpe as a Networking Platform  

Exploring the concept of "Eastern Europe" was just one of the topics tackled during the inaugural workshop by the academic supervisors and scholarship recipients. In addition to the substantive work, the stay in Gülpe provided room for informal conversations and the establishment of valuable networks. Initial contacts were made that are expected to form the foundation for future, trusting collaboration.  

A Promising Start  

The inaugural workshop of the Smart Room EVROPA in Gülpe fostered a deeper understanding of the challenges and dynamics of "Eastern Europe" through intensive learning, lively discussions, and interdisciplinary collaboration, strengthening the exchange between students and experts. Participants returned inspired and eager for the next workshop in April 2025.