On April 3 and 4, 2025, the University of Cologne hosted the inaugural edition of the Executive Dialogue – a new event format that brings together top decision-makers from science, business and politics. The aim is to jointly develop responses to today’s most pressing societal challenges and to strengthen the dialogue between research and practice at the highest level.
The CECAD Cluster of Excellence for Aging Research was one of two Clusters visited by the participants during the two-day program, alongside ECONtribute: Markets and Public Policy. The focus of the discussions at CECAD was on how research-based insights can help counter the shortage of skilled workers and promote a healthy and productive aging population.
CECAD scientists presented how insights into the biological mechanisms of aging are being translated into strategies for lifelong health. The discussions with the participants showed that this knowledge is increasingly relevant for shaping sustainable labor and health policies.
The event was opened by Professor Dr. Joybrato Mukherjee, Rector of the University of Cologne. In his keynote speech, he emphasized the strategic role of the University within Germany’s Excellence Strategy. “With the Executive Dialogue, the University of Cologne has created a forward-looking format for top decision-makers in business and politics. Our university is addressing societal challenges and, through its cutting-edge research, offers approaches to help decision-makers act today for the world of tomorrow,” said Professor Mukherjee.
From CECAD’s perspective, the event was a valuable opportunity to engage in open and constructive exchange with leaders from other sectors. The Executive Dialogue is planned to continue as a regular format and to develop further in terms of themes and structure.
Contact:
Dr. Sven Baszio
Universität zu Köln, Rektorat
Leitung Stabsstelle Universitätsförderung
+49 221 470 5921
sbaszio[at]uni-koeln.de
Press and Communications Team:
Dr. Tanio Calabrese
+49 221 478 84044
g.calabrese[at]uni-koeln.de
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