The discussion focused on the university’s strategic development, the recently completed structural reform, and the future of Höxter as a university town. Through this structural reform, TH OWL is further developing its existing degree programs, creating new opportunities in Studies and Teaching, and adapting to changing social, scientific, and economic requirements in the long term. A key question in this context is how the university can continue to contribute to training the urgently needed skilled workers for the region.
Alexander Baer emphasized the university’s special significance for East Westphalia-Lippe: “TH OWL is a key driver of innovation, research, and skilled workforce training. This is precisely why it is important to create sustainable and forward-looking prospects in order to remain attractive to new students.”
Dr. Bastian Hartmann also highlighted that TH OWL provides important impetus for the region, particularly in the area of sustainable mobility concepts for rural areas. Projects such as the emerging UrbanLand Mobility Center and MONOCAB impressively demonstrate the innovation potential available at the university.
President Jürgen Krahl thanked the two politicians for their interest not only in TH OWL’s projects but also in the rationale behind the structural reform: “In light of the profound upheavals of our time, it is not enough to preserve the status quo. We must actively shape the future. That is why we have chosen to forge new paths.”
In summary, the visit made it clear how closely the future development of TH OWL is linked to the needs of the region. In addition to the further development of degree programs and teaching methods, the exchange focused on research, knowledge transfer, and the university’s role as a catalyst for innovation in rural areas and in securing a skilled workforce.