A shared future in a just world

For 65 years, KAAD has been supporting students and young professionals from the Global South with scholarships, educational and networking activities so that they can take on leadership roles in the social and cultural development of their countries.

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Preserving creation

The preservation of creation combined with a global socio-ecological transformation is one of the fundamental concerns of KAAD's work.

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Religions in dialog

The fruitful exchange between members of different religions and denominations is at the heart of KAAD's support and alumni work.

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Global health

Health and well-being is one of the central goals for sustainable development. For KAAD and its networks, global health and public health is a priority area

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Cultural Heritage

The diverse cultural heritage in the different regions of the world is an expression of the history and identity of the local people - and at the same time a treasure that is important for all of humanity.

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Promoting peace and the common good

The promotion of peace and the common good is the fundamental concern of KAAD's sponsorship and alumni work. By supporting change agents, KAAD promotes and strengthens civil society structures, human rights, good governance and leadership, and ultimately democracies.

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Become part of our worldwide network

Benefit from scholarships, educational events and personal and spiritual support - take on leadership roles in the social and cultural development of your country.

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About us

We are the KAAD

As a scholarship organization of the Catholic Church in Germany, the KAAD supports young professionals from Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Latin America and Eastern Europe through academic (postgraduate) studies and research stays - with the aim of enabling them to take on leadership roles in the social, technical and cultural development of their countries.

Social responsibility and church commitment are important to us as the basis of our support.

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Latest news

| Aktuelles, Seminare, Veranstaltungen

KAAD Seminar: “Breaking the Walls of Violence – The Many Faces of Violence”

Violence is not limited to individual acts; rather, it is often shaped by political structures, social relationships, and institutional contexts.


A black-and-white portrait of Prof. Hans Bienlein
| Aktuelles, Nachruf

KAAD Mourns the Passing of Professor Hans Bienlein (1930–2026)

On April 4, 2026, Professor Hans Bienlein passed away at the age of 95. He served for many years as a KAAD liaison professor and, with exceptional personal dedication, supported the scholars and the work of the KAAD over the course of many years.


A photo of the group taken during the seminar in the seminar room, shot from behind. The participants’ backs and the presenter, Dr. Dodgjoni, are visible from the side.
| Aktuelles, Seminare, Veranstaltungen

Academic Mobility in Times of Crisis – Opportunities and Challenges for Young Researchers

How does academic mobility play out in the face of political instability, economic uncertainty, or social tensions?


| Aktuelles

New Name for KAAD: “Katholischer Akademischer Austauschdienst”

Since 13 March 2026, KAAD has officially adopted a new German name: Katholischer Akademischer Austauschdienst.


The new entrance area: a bright, white-painted hallway with light brown linoleum flooring, currently unfurnished.
| Aktuelles

Relocation of the KAAD Office – A New Beginning on Königstraße in Bonn

After four decades, the KAAD has moved its office in Bonn from Hausdorffstraße to new premises on Königstraße.


P. Dr. Hans Langendörfer SJ speaks at a lectern bearing the KAAD logo during the KAAD Annual Academy 2025.
| Presse - über uns, Aktuelles, Personalia

P. Dr. Hans Langendörfer SJ Begins His Second Term as President of the KAAD

The German Bishops' Conference has appointed Fr Dr Hans Langendörfer SJ as president of the Catholic Academic Exchange Service (KAAD) for another five years. The decision underscores the continuity in the leadership of the KAAD.


The KAAD in figures: 2025

more than 10,700 alumni

429 scholars

from 54 countries

80 Events

with 2344 participants