Academic Senate: Re-examining University Policies - The fate of the TU president may be decided today.
Out of the 25 individuals, there was a vote taken to determine if smoking should be allowed to continue at the university. This information was then relayed to the president. On Thursday, it will be revealed publicly how the committee voted on this issue.
Regardless of whether Rauch decides to step down, the final verdict hasn't been reached just yet. On Monday, there's going to be an extraordinary meeting of the TU's board of trustees concerning the Rauch case. They could potentially vote for her dismissal, but this would require additional consideration by the Academic Senate. In Hiller's words, this council would need to take a firm stand on this topic. Lastly, the Decision-Making Board of the Academic Senate would have to make the ultimate decision.
The criticism directed towards Rauch stems from her "liking" some posts on platform X that were deemed anti-Semitic. The professor has since shown remorse, apologized, and expressed her regret for her actions on Wednesday. She has also requested for herself to undergo a disciplinary process, which could result in one of the following penalties under the Federal Disciplinary Law for civil servants who have violated their duties:
- a reprimand
- a penalty
- a reduction in salary
- demotion
- termination from civil service.
Federal Ministry for Disciplinary Procedures
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The ongoing controversy surrounding Geraldine Rauch's actions has led to a discussion about extremism in universities, with Germany's TU being at the center of it all. Annette Hiller, a member of the Senate, has emphasized the importance of taking a firm stance against such behaviors. Despite Rauch's apology and request for disciplinary proceedings, the future of her position is still uncertain. If the Decision-Making Board of the Academic Senate deems it necessary, Rauch could face penalties ranging from a reprimand to termination from civil service. On a related note, Berlin's Senate is also combating extremism in education, focusing on preventing the spread of radical ideologies within its universities.
