A high-ranking official of the Conference of University Rectors, Walter Rosenthal, has called for a reduction in bureaucracy and financial support for German universities, just before the election.
According to Rosenthal, German universities are heavily burdened by complex and detailed administrative regulations and reporting requirements. He cited the example of a large German university, which is required to submit 130 different reports to various federal and state authorities every year, a task that consumes significant resources.
Rosenthal also emphasized the need for stronger financial support from the federal government. Since the federalism reform in 2006, the states have been solely responsible for funding universities, with some not providing sufficient support, he said.
The estimated budget for university renovations is between 74 and 140 billion euros, with some buildings being closed due to safety concerns such as collapsing ceilings or other hazards. Rosenthal believes the federal government should provide targeted help in this area.
Furthermore, the HRK president has called for a reform of research funding and a consolidation of competencies within a single ministry. He argued that the current distribution of funds for science and innovation by various federal ministries leads to inefficiencies. According to Rosenthal, a coordinated, strategic approach is necessary, as science and innovation are interdependent.