Dresden (dpa / sn) - The Saxon cabinet has launched the draft for the new higher education law. With the amendment, a central project of the coalition agreement is to be implemented. Science Minister Sebastian Gemkow (CDU) wants to present details on Wednesday. In his opinion, the law sets the course for the further development of Saxony as a science location and at the same time increases the competitiveness of the universities in research and teaching. Among other things, the law is intended to expand the competencies of the university bodies and strengthen the academic mid-level faculty and the student unions. Gemkow expects the state parliament to pass the law before the 2023 summer break.
Gemkow did not want to describe 2022 indiscriminately as a good year for science and universities. "It's a double-edged sword. On the one hand, we still had the after-effects of the corona pandemic, which was a major problem for many students. There was a lack of social contacts, which is also reflected in the numbers of psychosocial consultations at the Student unions clearly," said Gemkow of the German Press Agency. The pandemic left its mark on young people. However, the universities did a good job of offering "hybrid teaching" and imparting knowledge via online offers.
"It was a difficult time for everyone who studied during this time - just like for the researchers," emphasized Gemkow. "All in all, it was a good year. Despite all the problems, we were well equipped financially." In addition, there have been international awards for scientists from Saxon research institutions, including the Nobel Prize for Svante Pääbo, the director at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig. What has been built up here over the last few decades is now reflected in outstanding results: "I assume that this will continue in the years to come."
"We have now reached a critical mass in the scientific landscape," said Gemkow. There is excellence and quantity of expertise. The international perception of Saxony as a science location has increased. With the funds that have now been decided in the new double budget, the facilities can continue to be excellently equipped. However, it is not known whether this will be enough in nominal terms in view of rising costs and inflation. According to the current forecasts, the science system will be well equipped.
