Most academics value their autonomy and enjoy learning new things and sharing their knowledge with others. Exchange programs have been set up, both for students and for faculty. Links with foreign universities have spawned institutes and degree programs conducted in English, French and German. Computer networks have been installed and libraries have been updated. Competition is high for limited enrollment slots, so the students here are top-notch and eager to learn.
Education is valued here, and most students stay well beyond the standard bachelor's degree level.
Phones are answered by real people. Students, secretaries and administrative assistants are knowledgeable, helpful, and courteous, and typically multilingual. Since students can exchange military for educational service, assistants are not in short supply. They remind me of my credit-card company back home. Instead of telling me what the standard procedures were, we discussed my particular situation living abroad.