News Detail

Dear Colleagues, Dear Students,

At Anhalt University of Applied Sciences, there is a dedicated team that works every day to promote diversity and equality. We would now like to provide you with regular updates from our “Equality & Diversity” department. This will keep you informed about new ideas and projects being implemented, as well as upcoming events. The “Equality & Diversity” newsletter is part of our ongoing effort to create and promote an inclusive and diverse work environment.

In the summer of 2026, Anhalt University of Applied Sciences finalized its diversity strategy and secured approval from all governing bodies. Across ten areas of action—ranging from development and structure to academic programs and teaching—the strategy commits the university to identifying and specifically addressing structural inequalities, for example through increased internationalization and accessibility. The goal is an inclusive university with minimal discrimination. The strategy is being further developed as part of the Diversity Audit Ost. Our goal is to strengthen the areas of equality and diversity in order to ensure a just and fair university where all employees can fully realize their potential.

Sincerely,

Prof. Dr. Uta Seewald-Heeg, Vice President for International Affairs and Equality

In Focus

Vier Frauen stehen vor einer alten Steinmauer mit schmalen Fenstern. Sie lächeln in die Kamera, tragen geschäftsmäßige Kleidung in verschiedenen Farben und Mustern und haben Namensschilder am Revers.

From Self-Report to Audit Visit: Anhalt University of Applied Sciences in the Diversity Audit East

Only three universities were selected for the “Diversity Audit Ost” by Stifterverband Change and the Klaus Tschira Foundation, including Anhalt University of Applied Sciences. Since May 2026, the university has been further developing its strategies for diversity, equal opportunity, inclusion, and belonging as part of the program. Following the kickoff meeting, a site visit to Ilmenau, and the self-assessment report with a proposed strategy, the next phase is now underway. In October, the steering committee will meet with Stifterverband for a strategy workshop, and in February, three external auditors will visit the university. What is the purpose of the audit? Objectives and Background of the Diversity Audit East.

News in Brief

Academic freedom requires a stand: Anhalt University of Applied Sciences supports nationwide campaign

Anhalt University of Applied Sciences supports the nationwide campaign “Universities Take a Stand” and is taking a stand for academic freedom, scientific integrity, and respectful interaction free from discrimination. Why does academic freedom also entail responsibility? Read the statement.

Officially in Office: New Equal Opportunity Officer Introduced

This summer, the newly elected equal opportunity officers at Anhalt University of Applied Sciences were officially sworn into office. Who serves on the Equal Opportunity Commission, and who is responsible for which area? An Overview of the Equal Opportunity Officers.

New for the Winter Semester: PreDoc for Early-Career Female Researchers

Should I pursue a Ph.D.—yes or no? The new PreDoc program makes this decision easier. It is aimed at female and non-binary master’s students in all degree programs at the university. The program consists of three modules focusing on the Ph.D., academic research, and participants’ individual strengths. Module I begins in the 2026–27 winter semester, both in Köthen and online. Participation is free and does not commit you to pursuing a Ph.D. The registration deadline is October 25; questions will be answered during virtual office hours on October 12 and 19 from 8 to 9 a.m. Go to the PreDoc program page.

“World Opener” at Elbauenpark: Anhalt University of Applied Sciences at the State Harvest Festival

More than 2,700 international students, plus colleagues from all over the world—what would our university be without them? This question was the focus of our participation in the State Harvest Festival at Elbauenpark in Magdeburg on September 19 and 20. At the pavilion, university members—including the Democracy Working Group—engaged in conversation with many visitors, accompanied by a postcard campaign promoting the current issue of “Einblick” titled “Welt-Öffner” (World Opener). In it, seven personal stories illustrate what the university would be missing without its international members. To the current “Insight.”

HSA Rebels: Photo Exhibition Heads to Bernburg and Köthen

International female students at the university use photographic portraits to illustrate the prejudices they face in their studies, careers, and daily lives. After Dessau, the exhibition will soon be on view at the Bernburg and Köthen campuses. Another century, the same problems? About the photo exhibition “HSA Rebels.

Anhalt University of Applied Sciences Presents Its First Gender Equality Award

Architecture You Can Feel: Micha Jönke from the Department of Architecture, Facility Management, and Geoinformation received the university’s first Equality Award at Teaching Day on July 1, 2026, for an inclusive architecture book. Together with students, he made the works of underrepresented female architects accessible through text, Braille, and tactile representations. The project demonstrates how equality, diversity, and accessibility can be integrated into teaching. First Gender Equality Award

Internal Events

International University Day 2026
October 7, 2026, starting at 4:00 p.m.
Informationen

Fundamentals of Digital Accessibility and an Introduction to Accessible Design for Word Documents
November 4, 2026, 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. (for employees)
Registration

Making PowerPoint Slides Accessible
November 18, 2026, 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. (for employees)
Registration

Für alle gleich ist nicht für alle gerecht - Wie Studierende Lehre unterschiedlich erleben und was das für Lehrende bedeutet
December 10, 2026, 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. (for faculty)
Registration

External Events

ViSo Project Months: Diversity, Empowerment, and Solidarity at Universities
October 1 through November 30
Two months, many formats: Readings, workshops, and discussions throughout Saxony-Anhalt focus on experiences of discrimination and highlight ways to achieve greater equality of opportunity at universities. To the event overview for the ViSo Project Months.

Power, Responsibility, and Change in Science
(Kick-off Meeting) as part of the OVGU Female Career Days
03.11.2026, 16:00 – 18:00 Uhr, Magdeburg
Shining a Light on Abuse of Power and Dependencies in Academia: Keynote by Lisa Niendorf (@frauforschung), followed by a panel discussion with representatives from universities, the city, and the state. Registration deadline: October 29. Information and registration: OVGU Female Career Days.

Statewide Gender Studies Day 2026
November 12, 2026, all day, Magdeburg
How Can We Practice Allyship? This symposium brings together gender and queer studies scholars from across Saxony-Anhalt. Information about Gender Studies Day 2026.

Service and Contact

Lust auf eine queere Hochschulgruppe? Der StuRa hilft Studierenden bei der Gründung

Interested in starting a queer college group? The StuRa helps students get started E-Mail

Reporting portal

Little known but important: The reporting portal allows you to report violations such as discrimination, corruption, or occupational safety violations securely, in an encrypted manner, and anonymously if desired. More information and access to the registration portal.

Buddy Program for Students

Making the transition easier: Through the International Office’s Buddy Program, students mentor new international classmates while gaining contacts and intercultural experience themselves. Faculty members are encouraged to inform their students about the program. Information and registration for the Buddy Program.

voiio: Input and guidance on diversity and inclusion for employees

Whether it's childcare, elder care, or mental health: The voiio portal provides free support to all employees in balancing work and personal life and also offers insights on diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Simply sign up with your university email address! Go to the voiio resources on “Diversity and Inclusion.”