Competence Center

Companies and public institutions are faced with a multitude of challenges as a result of globalisation and internationalisation, including cooperating in multicultural teams, negotiating with business partners abroad, expanding one's own business operations abroad, and collaborating across international borders.

The Competence Center for Global Competence is based on a research team from Osnabrück University of Applied Sciences and combines excellent research with practical consulting in the areas of diversity management, intercultural competence diagnostics, and migration and integration. In addition to conducting fundamental and practice-oriented research projects at the regional, national, and European levels, we collaborate with businesses and public authorities to optimize processes, reduce disadvantages and barriers, and harness synergies through diversity and interculturality. Furthermore, with the Cult Euro 1 Test, we offer the first validated and standardized test for intercultural competence.

Mission and Fields of Action

The Center for Global Competence is dedicated to bridging the gap between research and practice by fostering collaboration, understanding, and innovation across diverse fields. Our mission is rooted in four key areas of action, each designed to address critical needs in the realms of research, networking, public engagement, and professional consultation. Below, we outline these fields and their significance in advancing intercultural competence and diversity.

1. Research

At the core of the Center’s mission is a commitment to conducting high-quality, impactful research. We focus on both foundational and applied studies in areas such as diversity management, intercultural competence diagnostics, and migration and integration. By employing rigorous methodologies and collaborating with international partners, our research aims to provide actionable insights that address real-world challenges while contributing to academic discourse. Central achievements in this area are the development and validation of the Cult Euro 1 Test as well as the Project "Profile building through Diversity Management (PDM)", investigating Diversity Mangement in private and public universities in Germany.

2. Networking: Connecting Researchers and Practitioners

We serve as a hub for fostering meaningful connections between researchers, practitioners, and policymakers. The Center facilitates multidisciplinary collaboration, enabling the exchange of ideas and best practices. Through conferences, workshops, and targeted initiatives, we bring together experts from academia, the public sector, and industry to address pressing issues and develop innovative solutions that bridge the gap between theory and practice. More information on our network-projects can be found here. Moreover, Prof. Dr. Genkova is vice head of the COST Action 21107 Work inequalities in later life redefined by digitalization (DIGI-net), building and consolidating networks all over Europe.

3. Transfer of Research with Citizens

Engaging the public is a cornerstone of our approach. We are dedicated to making research accessible and relevant by creating opportunities for dialogue and participation. Through outreach programs and public discussions, the Center translates complex research findings into practical knowledge that empowers communities and fosters a deeper understanding of intercultural dynamics. For mor information on our activities in this area, see the our project "Diversity Discussions".

4. Counseling for the Business and Public Sector

The Center provides tailored consulting services to businesses and public sector organizations, helping them navigate the complexities of diversity and intercultural communication. By leveraging our research expertise, we offer practical solutions for optimizing organizational processes, reducing barriers, and harnessing the benefits of cultural diversity. Our goal is to enable organizations to achieve sustainable success by fostering inclusivity and resilience. If you are interested in our services, you wil find an overview of services and competences provided here.

Global and intercultural competence are in demand as key qualifications in many areas. In this context, we individually develop together with you concrete solutions to problems for your company on a scientific basis, so that your staff is always well qualified for new challenges. Together, we can identify intercultural problems and develop the best solution for you.

All offers can be carried out directly at your premises. If you would like to receive detailed information about the possibilities of cooperation, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are looking forward to exchanging ideas with you.

The Cult-Euro-1 Test is now available as a cutting-edge tool for personnel diagnostics. This thoroughly validated instrument provides an in-depth assessment of both general and Germany-specific intercultural competence among your employees. Leverage this test to make evidence-based HR decisions and design targeted development programs for your team.

For more information about the test, click here.