University funding in BW: 1.8 billion for the education offensive!

University funding in BW: 1.8 billion for the education offensive!

On April 4, 2025, a significant university financing agreement for Baden-Württemberg until 2030 was signed in Stuttgart. Among those taking part in this ceremony were Prime Minister Winfried Kretschmann, Science Minister Petra Olschowski and Finance Minister Dr. Danyal Bayaz took part. The rector of the Heidelberg University of Education, Professor Dr. Karin Vach and Chancellor Stephanie Wiese-Heß were present at the signing. In her speech, Vach emphasized the central role of education as an investment in the future and viewed the agreement as recognition of the previous achievements of the scientists and employees of the universities.

The new agreement provides for flexible funding management and is intended to help universities further develop their strengths in teacher training and educational research. This occurs in the context of a higher education system that has grown by almost 40 percent over the last 15 years, creating evident challenges and opportunities for universities.

Financial perspectives and specifications

The agreement includes the transfer of around 285 million euros for the expansion of study capacities into the basic financing. This means that universities now have the opportunity to create permanent positions and thus offer more effective employment conditions. These steps are not only a sign of the country's financial support, but also an opportunity to improve teaching and strengthen administrative structures.

A central goal of the agreement is to increase planning security for universities. The country will make an additional 1.8 billion euros available by 2025. This sum includes an annual financial increase of an average of 3.5 percent, which means that twice as much additional state funding can be made available per year than in the previous agreement. This improves basic financing sustainably.

Commitments to sustainability and equal opportunities

Another key component of the agreement is the particular importance of climate protection. The universities are committed to developing solutions and acting as role models. This includes measurable targets for CO₂ reduction in the areas of electricity, heat and transport. In addition, universities should be involved in collecting a climate tax on air travel.

In addition, universities must support the investigation of a possible gender pay gap between professors and also provide data on this topic. Particular attention is also paid to the employment of people with disabilities in order to sustainably promote equal opportunities and inclusion. These measures are part of a comprehensive plan to improve the teaching and research environment in Baden-Württemberg.

The Ministry's notification of these comprehensive agreements is on mwk.baden-wuerttemberg.de available. Baden-Württemberg is thus sending a strong signal for the future of its universities and the education system as a whole.