Today, at the 40th General Assembly of the German Rectors’ Conference (HRK) in Magdeburg, the new Federal Minister of Research, Technology and Space, Dorothee Bär, emphasised the important and indispensable role of universities for society and the German research and innovation system. Bär had travelled to Otto-von-Guericke-University at midday to meet the assembled German university leaders.
“We are delighted that the minister, still so new in office, is immediately addressing the pressing issues of higher education policy and seeking direct dialogue with the universities,” says HRK President Prof Dr Walter Rosenthal. “When we strengthen our universities, then we strengthen the renewal of our country – there is nothing to add to this commitment in the minister’s short speech. We eagerly anticipate the realisation of the goal formulated in the coalition agreement of a rapid and effective strengthening of the entire German innovation system and look forward to continued, trusting dialogue in this area.”
In her discussion with HRK members, Bär gave an insight into the innovation and higher education policy agenda of her newly structured Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR). With a view to the international competitiveness of German science, the minister emphasised, among other things, the need for investment in university infrastructure.
Bär also acknowledged the role of universities as drivers of the future, creating new knowledge and skills as globally oriented players and engaging in dialogue with industry and society. The Excellence Strategy, she noted, is a “flagship” for free and excellent research. At the same time, Bär encouraged the universities not to slacken in their efforts to sustainably improve career paths and working conditions in research.
