Anhalt University of Applied Sciences supports the nationwide campaign “Universities Take a Stand,” thereby sending a clear message in support of freedom of research and teaching, academic integrity, and open and respectful dialogue. The campaign was launched in October 2025 by an alliance of various stakeholders in the fields of diversity, equality, and anti-discrimination. Numerous colleges and universities in Germany have already joined the initiative.
Protecting Freedom of Research and Teaching
Freedom of research and teaching is a fundamental element of our democratic society. It creates the necessary space to ask new questions, critically examine existing assumptions, and independently arrive at scientific findings. Scientific independence ensures that research findings are based on facts, transparent procedures, and evidence-based methods. It is therefore an essential prerequisite for the credibility of science and for public trust in scientific findings. Anhalt University of Applied Sciences is therefore expressly committed to protecting academic freedom.
Academic Freedom Means Responsibility
Freedom of research and teaching is not a license for arbitrariness. It is inextricably linked to scientific integrity, ethical responsibility, and adherence to recognized scientific standards. Research findings must be verifiable. Arguments must be scrutinized, and differing positions must be discussed objectively. At the same time, Anhalt University of Applied Sciences resolutely opposes discrimination, exclusion, and intolerance. A free university requires respectful interaction among its members and an environment in which all members of the university community can contribute their perspectives and participate in scholarly exchange.
Openness and a diversity of perspectives foster innovation
Universities are places of academic curiosity, critical thinking, and free exchange. Diverse professional and personal perspectives enrich research and teaching and help us better understand complex challenges. New insights and groundbreaking innovations can emerge especially where researchers are free to work without bias, investigate unresolved questions, and critically question even established positions. Political, ideological, or economic interests must not dictate scientific findings. The role of science is to gain insights based on transparent methods and to openly present them for discussion.
Critical Thinking as the Foundation of Democratic Participation
The freedom to ask questions, examine arguments, and weigh different points of view against one another is not only of central importance for research and teaching. It is also an important foundation for social responsibility and democratic participation. Universities therefore do not merely impart specialized knowledge. They also strengthen the ability to critically evaluate information, make informed decisions, and participate constructively in societal debates.
By supporting the “Universities Take a Stand” campaign, Anhalt University of Applied Sciences reaffirms its commitment to a free, responsible, and open academic culture.
© Hochschule Anhalt
