（只供英文版）
In the current era of rapidly evolving global dynamics, the value of cross-cultural understanding has never been more profound. This is a belief that Professor Dr. Gerd Schwandner and Dr. Annette Schwandner have championed over decades—not merely in theory, but by taking tangible, life-changing action. For example, in 2007, the distinguished German couple established a scholarship at Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) in support of undergraduates making study exchange in Germany. Their unwavering commitment, which has benefitted more than 30 students for nearly two decades, is a powerful testament to their philosophy of promoting global citizenship.

This long-standing partnership was celebrated in March when the Schwandners returned to the HKBU campus. During their stay, they personally presented their eponymous scholarship to this year’s recipients, thus reaffirming the enduring friendship with the University and a shared passion for nurturing the talents of the next generation. In a subsequent conversation, the couple shared their insights gained from a life built on philanthropy, service, and a deep-seated belief in the power of education. 

A partnership rooted in Hong Kong
“Hong Kong is the city outside Germany and Europe where I’ve spent the second most time, so it’s crucial in my biography,” Gerd begins. His deep connection with the city and HKBU dates back to 1995, when he first helped to arrange internships in Germany for the University’s then-new European Studies Programme. This practical support blossomed into a profound academic and personal bond. Gerd later served from 1999 to 2000 as a visiting scholar at HKBU, a year he still describes as a formative “training camp” for life. His affection for the city’s culture became deeply ingrained—he can still effortlessly name his favourite Hong Kong movie stars, from Leslie Cheung to Chow Yun Fat.

This deep involvement instilled a lasting sense of gratitude that spurred him to action. “I have a lot of fond memories with HKBU,” he recalls. “We want to return that kindness.” Driven by this sentiment, the Schwandners established a scholarship for HKBU students even before they formally launched the Annette & Gerd Schwandner Foundation for Science and Culture in 2007. The scholarship enables outstanding European Studies undergraduates to study in Germany, giving them an invaluable opportunity to broaden their horizons. The connection doesn’t end there; they have even built lasting friendships with recipients. “We’re still in touch with one of the first students,” Gerd notes.

From beneficiaries to benefactors
This principle of “paying it forward” is the cornerstone of the couple’s philanthropic vision. Both Gerd and Annette received US Department of State scholarships in the early 1990s, formative experiences that shaped their world view. “International study within structured programmes gives you perspective and focus for life,” Gerd says. “We’re big believers in scholarships for young ambitious students.”

For the Schwandners, philanthropy is a virtuous cycle. Witnessing first hand the life-changing impact made by their donations has been a powerful motivator, inspiring them to increase consistently their financial commitment. Over the past decades, they have funnelled their success directly into their Foundation, fuelling a broad range of philanthropic efforts stretching from Beijing to South Africa and Kenya (where they lived from 2020-2024). Since 2021, their largest programme has been in Kenya, reflecting an acute need for support in that country where public scholarships are scarce. “Students are living in slums, and we see the strong need for support,” Gerd recalls, noting one award was even approved on the spot over the telephone.

Their philosophy is clear: “If you can afford it, you have to give something back to society, because without society, you are nothing,” Annette states with conviction. Gerd adds with a smile, “It’s much more fun to spend money on students than on yachts or airplanes.”

Careers forged in service and curiosity
The couple’s commitment to science and culture is a direct reflection of their own dynamic careers. Professor Dr. Gerd Schwandner’s career exemplifies transdisciplinary leadership. A trained surgeon, his intellectual curiosity led him from medicine to public service. His distinguished career includes serving as Mayor of a major German city, Oldenburg, and as Managing Director of the world-renowned ZKM Center for Art and Media in Karlsruhe.

Dr. Annette Schwandner’s path is equally impressive, marked by a dedication to culture and the arts. A historian by training, she has held senior roles in public administration, including as Head of the Department for Culture for the Ministry for Science and Culture in Lower Saxony. Her career took a global turn when she served as the Country Director for the Konrad Adenauer Foundation in Nairobi, overseeing complex development programmes. As Annette explains, their own Foundation’s focus is a natural extension of their life’s work, “In a globalised world, education is essential for a good job, so we invest in education internationally.”

Transdisciplinarity—with depth and rigour
Transdisciplinarity is a strategic priority in HKBU's current development, and Professor Schwandner’s work aligns perfectly with this focus. Drawing on his leadership experience at the ZKM Center for Art and Media, he has long advocated for the integration of art and technology, a topic of critical importance in the age of AI. However, he also offers a crucial piece of advice for today’s students: “Transdisciplinarity works best when you have depth in one or two fields. Don’t end up knowing a little about everything and not enough about anything.”

In this transdisciplinary context, Annette emphasises the need for structure and planning: “Start with a clear plan: where you’re beginning, your goal, and a timeline. Think about who you can involve and who can help. Don’t just start—plan your pathway and milestones.” She also advises students to think about their skills strategically, noting that in competitive fields like museum management, having complementary expertise can be the key to success.

A global perspective on talent and leadership
Drawing from both their extensive international teaching experiences, Gerd observes that students from China are not only ambitious and well-prepared but also possess a remarkable eagerness to learn. He recalls that even after he had run significantly over time in his lectures, the students still clamoured for more. “The students wanted to have a private continuation of my talk, which we had for 45 minutes,” Gerd explains, still impressed. 

This passion for learning, he believes, should be met with equally passionate leadership. When asked for the keys to success, both Schwandners offer empathy and respect as being non-negotiable principles. “You have always to keep in mind, how would you like to be treated by your superior?” says Gerd, adding: “Build international experience. Stay humble.”

Dialogue bridges divides  
As a veteran of international relations, Gerd acknowledges that the current geopolitical atmosphere is more challenging than it was a decade ago. However, he firmly believes that this makes the work of building bridges at the personal level even more critical. He argues that true understanding begins with direct, human connection, making student exchange the most effective form of diplomacy. “Scholarships, internships, study tours, and academic exchanges are vital,” he stresses, adding “You don’t have to agree to learn from one another.”

Life beyond work—art, movement and travel
The Schwandners are now retired but are still avid museum-goers. They keep energised by walking, cycling and in gym sessions—in Kenya, Gerd used to run, training six days a week. Travel is another shared passion. Their top destinations include Hong Kong, Italy and Thailand. For family reasons, the United States is also on Prof. Schwandner’s list. “Italy feels like a second home—I’ve visited yearly since childhood and speak some Italian,” he says.

It is this enduring commitment, one of fostering mutual understanding, that continues to open doors for the next generation. Through their example and philanthropy, Gerd and Annette Schwandner empower young people to see the world not as a collection of separate nations, but as a shared home that needs bridges, not walls. They are, in the truest sense of the word, global citizens.