Sport-Buddy Programme for Refugees

The Sport Buddy Programme is a cooperation between the Department of International Affairs and UniSport. It is an offer for prospective students with a refugee background who are taking part in preparatory German courses at the University of Cologne to do sport together with Cologne students.

Programme schedule and registration

Daniil C. comes from Ukraine and is preparing for his degree programme in a preparatory German course run by the Department of International Affairs. Paul Z. is studying European History at the Fernuni Hagen. They met in the winter semester 2023 through the Sport-Buddy Programme.

Daniil: "I really like the Sport-Buddy programme. This programme allows me to do two of my favourite things: Meeting people and doing sports. I was very lucky to meet Paul and we regularly play table tennis and volleyball. I'm glad that there are programmes that bring people with similar interests together, especially for international students."

Paul: "The programme is great because everyone benefits from it. Daniil and I have found a sports partner and a friend, while the University of Cologne is promoting the integration of its international (prospective) students. I'm very happy to be part of the programme!"

Programme schedule and registration

The Sport Buddy Programme:

We offer participants in the UniSport programme at the University of Cologne who already have a Sportticket or would like to purchase one the opportunity to get involved with people with a refugee background. UniSport and the Department of International Affairs would be delighted if you would like to share your passion for sport as a Sport Buddy with a refugee who is preparing to study in Germany in a German course at the University of Cologne. The aim of the programme is for you to support your sports buddy with orientation and provide assistance (also outside of UniSport).

If we find a suitable sports buddy for you, the UniSport sports ticket is free of charge for this person! We will send you a form that your sports buddy will need to register with UniSport.

Registration:
If you are interested, please contact the Department of International Affairs by email (subject: Sport-Buddy), stating your favourite sports and any other requests.

Ariane Elshof (she)
e.elshof@verw.uni-koeln.de