One of the central topics of the EDA is the promotion and qualification of future executives as well as young scientists in the Danube region. The EDA has therefore established a scientific network in cooperation with universities in Ulm and Neu-Ulm and universities along the Danube (Krems, Budapest, Novi Sad, Ruse), within the framework of which an annual “Danube School” for students and young scientists from the Danube countries takes place in Ulm and Illertissen (Vöhlinschloss University Center). It is led by Prof. Gerhard Mayer (Neu-Ulm University of Applied Sciences) and Paul F. Langer MSc; the lecturers are renowned professors from various disciplines and “Danube experts”.

The “Danube Summer School” serves to promote and qualify young scientists with regard to management skills – a central task within the framework of the EU Strategy for the Danube Region. It sees itself as a qualified contribution against the “brain drain”, the still prevalent emigration of young elites from the south-eastern European Danube countries and one of the central themes of the EU strategy for the Danube region.