The exchange focused on the use of artificial intelligence in teaching. Professor Krahl explained how the university is increasingly incorporating AI-based applications into its degree programs—both as teaching content and as a tool to support innovative forms of learning.
"We are currently experiencing a profound change in academic education," emphasized Professor Krahl. "AI is not only changing what we teach, but also how we teach." TH OWL is therefore increasingly promoting project-oriented formats in which students learn in a practical and interdisciplinary manner, develop solutions independently, and reflect on the potential of digital technologies.
The main focus area of the discussion was the Transfer Year 2025 proclaimed by the university. The aim of this initiative is to further expand the transfer of knowledge between science, business, and society and to create new forms of dialogue with the region. "As a university of applied sciences, we see transfer as a core task," said Krahl. "We want to shape the future together with our partners – in teaching, research, and regional development."
The meeting also addressed the internal structural reform of TH OWL, with which the university is adapting its organization to the challenges of our time. Krahl explained that TH OWL is pursuing three main goals with the reform: to further improve the quality of degree programs, to further develop student recruitment, and to increase efficiency.
This will make it possible to create space for the further development of TH OWL – a crucial prerequisite for ensuring the university's competitiveness despite the tight budgetary situation in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia and for strengthening its innovative power for the benefit of students and the region.
Kerstin Vieregge sees "TH OWL as an indispensable location factor for Lippe and OWL. Close cooperation with the local economy promotes networks, drives innovation, and trains urgently needed skilled workers locally. This benefits students, companies, and the region as a whole."
With regard to the Höxter campus, Professor Krahl presented the Member of the Bundestag with his thoughts on the planned "Höxter Campus for the Common Good." The reorientation is intended to make a concrete contribution to positioning the district of Höxter as a "region for the common good," as stipulated in the district development concept.
The new location development concept is based on key areas of action from the "National Strategy for Social Innovation and Public Welfare-Oriented Companies" (SIGU), which are to be systematically implemented together with regional stakeholders. In addition to research and networking activities, the main focus is on developing expertise for public welfare-oriented regional development and the economy.
Kerstin Vieregge was impressed by the diverse initiatives of TH OWL and its clear strategic orientation: "My visit to TH OWL in Lemgo clearly showed me that the university is actively addressing the major challenges of our time, particularly in the areas of digitalization and the further development of teaching, and is breaking new ground in the process. TH OWL is a key driver of innovation for our region and plays a key role in securing skilled workers. I welcome the commitment to new teaching formats."