- University of Jena values global openness significantly.
Universities, as per the latest leader of Uni Jena, should nurture global perspectives, but not affiliate with political parties. "We prosper most when we stay varied and dynamic. And I don't feel compelled to endorse a political stance. That's all about what's best for the university," mentioned Andreas Marx.
Freedom of thought ignites innovation, Catalyzing academic might and moral worth for the nation. "I'd rejoice if this aspect is highlighted more," spoke the head of Friedrich-Schiller-Universität (FSU) just before the state polls.
Support for Prof Wagner Amid Threats
On the website X, the university extended support to the executive head of Buchenwald and Mittelbau-Dora memorials foundation, Jens-Christian Wagner. He faced lethal threats following his missive to Thuringian electorate warning against AfD. Wagner also serves as the professor of history in media and public life at FSU.
Academic institutions adhere to an impartiality code. In the prelude to the local and state elections, Thuringian universities also partook in campaigns which persuaded students to enroll at their campus for voting. This was censured, for instance, by the AfD.
In the past few months, university heads have reported hesitation amongst prospective students due to Thuringia's political atmosphere. Marx, who took over in Jena from University of Konstanz in early August, hasn't encountered this yet. Jena maintains a strong allure and accommodates a favorable climate for businesses. "Maintaining this vitality is essential. Losing it would mean losing significant material assets as well."
Despite avoiding political affiliations at the university level, Andreas Marx expressed his support during the state polls for the importance of various perspectives, including in the election to the Landtag.
In the context of maintaining impartiality in academic institutions, the AfD criticized the Thuringian universities for their involvement in election-related campaigns, encouraging student voter registration.
