The TH Lübeck sees itself confirmed above all in its focus on application-related research, on transfer with international and regional partners and in practical teaching. It is well positioned in the state priorities of “renewable energies and energy transition”, “life sciences”, “medical technology” as well as in “digitalization” and “artificial intelligence”. The collaboration between the TH Lübeck and the University of Lübeck on the Hanse Innovation Campusin individual courses or projects such as Lübeck to the power of 3 The Science Council rated the Lübeck University of Music as exemplary.
Unused potential and further development
At the same time, the report shows unused potential in science. In its report, the Science Council made it very clear that the financial resources of Schleswig-Holstein’s universities are below the national average. And: The proportion in engineering subjects is also low. This particularly affects us
, Muriel Helbig explains further. The profile of the TH Lübeck in particular is essential for securing skilled workers and economic prosperity in the state, which is why three objectives are now particularly important: The significant strengthening of research and transfer at universities of applied sciences, the expansion of engineering subjects at the TH Lübeck and the securing of adequate financing that also takes university construction into account
says Muriel Helbig.
Strengthen research and transfer at universities of applied sciences
This also means a cultural change in politics in the recognition and appreciation of applied technologies Research and transfer as essential for the upcoming transformation processes, says Helbig. Measures for this would include the integration of research into the basic funding of universities of applied sciences, but would also include further incentives for transfer activities. We therefore welcome the Science Council’s recommendation to reduce the teaching load at universities of applied sciences. We have long been calling for the teaching load to be reduced to a maximum of 12 semester hours per week
says Muriel Helbig. The granting of the right to award doctorates to universities of applied sciences instead of a doctoral college is another important building block for the TH Lübeck in strengthening research and transfer. The establishment of research professorships at universities of applied sciences is not seen as a solution to the problem of the fundamentally excessive teaching load.
Expand engineering subjects at TH Lübeck
In line with the state priorities, the number of courses and places in engineering subjects should be expanded and the shortage of skilled workers should be counteracted. The strengthening of the construction and the establishment of the master’s degree program in sustainable building technology are examples of this. The focus must be on future-oriented study programs that are labor market-oriented and address different target groups. Part-time courses, courses in cooperation with other universities, comprehensive AI and digital skills in the courses offered and further training are examples of this.
Strategic internationalization is discussed in less detail in the report, but is essential, says Helbig.
Secure funding and prioritize university construction
The Science Council sees a need for action in the annual increase in basic funding, as agreed in the coalition agreement. The basic budget of the HAW would have to reflect the tasks in research, transfer, start-ups and further training and university funding through project funding would also have to be reduced, as the system of third-party funding is reaching its limits. According to the Science Council’s recommendation, higher priority should also be given to university construction. This point is very important. We would like to upgrade the location in line with our self-image as a digitally supported face-to-face university with, among other things, buildings and offers for transfer, new forms of learning and student workplaces
says Muriel Helbig.
Overall, the promotion of knowledge and technology transfer is one of the country’s central concerns and is closely linked to general economic and innovation promotion. The Science Council’s report confirms that we in Schleswig-Holstein need a rethink towards an innovative, strategically oriented university system that transcends departmental boundaries. The country must create the framework conditions for this. The Lübeck University of Technology is ready
concludes Muriel Helbig.