Guiding Principles
of the Eberhard Schöck Foundation


Introduction

The Eberhard Schöck Foundation is a private, non profit organization dedicated to fostering international understanding. It promotes education, craftsmanship, and the German language both in Germany and abroad.


Vision

We work for a world in which people can sustainably improve their living conditions through education and international cooperation, in which craftsmanship is recognized as an essential part of economic and cultural progress, and in which people are connected in mutual appreciation, living together peacefully and as partners.


Mission

Aware of Germany’s special historical responsibility, we focus on relationships with the people and countries of Central, Eastern, and Southeastern Europe.

We operate mainly on an operative basis and design our projects for long‑term impact and resource conservation.

We pursue a holistic approach by promoting practice‑oriented vocational training, craftsmanship skills, and building culture through knowledge transfer at home and abroad.

We support innovative projects and intercultural exchange, and build bridges between craftsmanship and civil engineering. Through the awarding of prizes, we honor outstanding achievements in these fields, inspire innovation, and enhance social recognition.

By promoting the German language and craftsmanship, we preserve cultural heritage, strengthen social and professional skills, create future opportunities for young people, and contribute to the social and economic development of our partner countries.

We award the German Language Culture Prize and advocate for the promotion of the German language as a cultural language and as a key to understanding and integration.

Through our projects, we strengthen dialogue between people in Germany and in the countries of Central, Eastern, and Southeastern Europe.


Values

In our work, we act in a spirit of partnership, inclusiveness, transparency, and respect.

Obituary

With great sorrow we bid farewell to

Dr. Jürgen D. Wickert
Deputy Chair of the Board of Directors

1944–2026

Dr. Jürgen D. Wickert served as an advisor even before the establishment of the Eberhard Schöck Foundation and had been a member of the Board since its founding in 1993 until today.

With his vast experience, expertise, and commitment, he significantly shaped, developed, and advanced the Foundation. His passing is a great loss for the Eberhard Schöck Foundation and for all who knew him and had the privilege of working with him.

We will always honor the memory of Dr. Jürgen D. Wickert. What he has done for our Foundation will never be forgotten.

Our deepest sympathy goes to his family.