On 17 October 2023, the DAAD Prize and the Prize of the International Centre were awarded during the Academic Celebration in the Alte Mensa, Petersstraße 5, to mark the enrolment of new students.

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) prize for 2023 was awarded to Sarada Prasanna Biswal from India. The student on the Master program Advanced Materials Analysis not only impressed with his above-average academic achievements, but also with his commitment to the student council of the Faculty of Chemistry and Physics and the study committee of his degree programme, of which he has been a member since his second semester. Mr Biswal is also active in the Buddy Programme for international newcomers.
The DAAD prize is endowed with 1,000 euros.

The Prize of the International Centre for 2023 was awarded to Shayak Majumder from India. He is studying Groundwater Management and is about to complete his degree. From the beginning of his studies, he has been extremely involved in student and social life, as well as in the work of various committees at TUBAF. He is a member of the Student Council, where he heads the Social and International Affairs Department. He is a student representative on the Study Commission and Examination Board of his degree program and a member of the Rectorate Commissions for Diversity, Equality and Inclusion as well as the Rectorate Commission for International Affairs, and he is involved in STUBE Saxony, the study support programme for students from Africa, Asia, Latin America and Eastern Europe. All of this has helped him to broaden his perspective beyond his studies and to network with students from other universities.

He is an active volunteer and supports the University Sports Centre, the IUZ and Terra Mineralia at various events. His particular concern is the integration of international students, for example by repeatedly encouraging them to take part in discussions or to work on committees. He also works voluntarily for NABU Freiberg e.V.
With his open-mindedness, motivation and tireless commitment, Shayak Majumder is a great role model for all students.
The IUZ prize is endowed with 500 euros.