“Helping to shape the school from the start”: Dr. Kurt Liedtke bids farewell to the Board
Companion since the conception and foundation of the school
On behalf of the UWC Robert Bosch College community, we would like to bid farewell to Dr. Kurt Liedtke, a longtime member of our Board whose life’s work and commitment to education and social responsibility has inspired us all. About 15 years ago, a significant journey began that led to the founding of our school, and Kurt Liedtke played a central role in it.
As we approached the 150th anniversary of Robert Bosch’s birth in 2014, it was Kurt Liedtke who was instrumental in developing the vision of an educational institution that went beyond the traditional concept of elite education. “The elite we aspire to should not only be based on intellectual excellence, but should also encompass ethical and social responsibility,” he emphasized. This philosophy was incorporated into the founding of Robert Bosch College in Freiburg, which has since stood for values such as intercultural understanding, social cohesion and a drive for innovation.
Values-based corporate governance: an impressive life story
Kurt Liedtke’s own life story is a remarkable example of the principles he embodies. Born and raised in Dieburg, he completed his schooling at the Goethe School in 1962. His path led him to Frankfurt am Main and Lausanne as a Cusanuswerk scholarship holder, where he studied law. With his doctorate in 1971 and subsequent state examination, he laid the foundation for an impressive career. His first position as a specialist lawyer for tax law enabled him to achieve further milestones at Robert Bosch GmbH, where he worked for many years in various international management positions, including in Australia and North America.
In 2001, he became a member of the Board of Management of Robert Bosch GmbH and in 2007 Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Robert Bosch Stiftung. “The connection between the core values of the UWC organization and the values of our founder Robert Bosch is our unique selling point,” he once said. This is also evident in the personal contacts with our students and employees, who actively live and pass on these values.
A vision of education that builds bridges between cultures
His tireless commitment and vision have not only shaped Robert Bosch College, but also touched countless lives. From the first ideas of a new educational institution to the daily challenges and successes that characterize our school today, Kurt has always been a trusted supporter and a successful trailblazer. “I am a little proud that I was able to help shape things from the very beginning,” he said on one of his last visits. These words will stay with us as we shape the future of the RBC.
With his retirement from the Board, Kurt Liedtke leaves behind not only an institution, but also a vision of education that builds bridges between cultures and promotes responsibility in a globalized world. We thank you, Kurt Liedtke, for your wisdom, your commitment and the inspiration you have given us all. On behalf of the entire school community, we wish you all the best for the years ahead. May your path continue to be characterized by success and satisfaction.
We say goodbye with a heartfelt thank you!
