Rector Prof. Dr. Alexander Kratzsch signed the new target agreement between the SMWK and the HSZG in the Saxon state parliament on December 11. This clearly recognizes the importance of Saxony's universities as guarantors for a good future.
Concrete goals agreed for research and teaching at Saxony's universities
The Free State of Saxony is sending a clear signal for the future of research and teaching: Science Minister Sebastian Gemkow has signed new target agreements for the years 2025 to 2028 together with the rectors of Saxony's universities and the deans of the medical faculties in Dresden and Leipzig. With a total volume of over 200 million euros and a significant increase compared to the previous period of around 180 million euros, decisive impetus will be provided.
The agreements concluded in a festive ceremony in the Saxon State Parliament define concrete goals for the further development of teaching, research and transfer at Saxony's universities. They serve as a central steering instrument that is tailored to the individual strengths of the 14 state universities. Science Minister Sebastian Gemkow emphasized:
Rector Prof. Dr. Alexander Kratzsch signed the target agreement with the Saxon State Ministry for Science, Culture and Tourism (SMWK) on behalf of the HSZG. The target agreement covers the areas of overarching goals, teaching and studies, research and third mission. Some focal points in these fields of action are
Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences remains committed to its goal of having a total of 3,000 students enrolled by November 1, 2028. In view of the positive trend in enrolment figures and the extensive measures, including at international level, this target appears achievable.
Prof. Dr. Alexander Kratzsch, Rector of the HSZG and Deputy Chairman of the Saxony Rectors' Conference, gave a welcoming speech at the signing ceremony and emphasized the consistently positive cooperation with the SMWK:
According to Prof. Kratzsch, the Saxon universities accept the ambitious goals with gratitude and the awareness that people are one of the most important resources in the Free State. For him, success in education and science is a "guarantee for a good future". He went on to say that the conclusion of the target agreements made it clear that politicians had not only recognized the importance of education and research in the Free State of Saxony, but also acknowledged it. Prof. Kratzsch states: "The willingness to invest in education and research gives universities the strength to master the challenges ahead."
The target agreements between the Ministry of Science and the universities are each valid for four years and are a central component of long-term university development planning. They are based on the grant agreement reached in spring 2024, which guarantees financial planning security until 2032.
Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences appreciates the partnership-based cooperation with the SMWK and sees the new target agreement as an important basis for its strategic development.
