For full funding and autonomy of universities
The knowledge gained by universities must serve the general public. For this reason, we see their funding as a task of the state. Solid financing provides universities with planning security on the one hand, and reduces the influence of private companies through third-party funds on the other.
Full funding means for us that universities can carry out and expand their teaching and research mission without additional funds from the business sector. Merely maintaining the current structures is not sufficient in our view.
We are convinced that free science and the critical spirit of society can only be guaranteed through autonomously acting universities. Universities must be able to act free from influence by politics and business.
Abolition of tuition fees and full funding of universities
Tuition fees represent a major financial and psychological burden for many students, making effective education more difficult. Students from low-income families in particular are often forced to work alongside their studies, leading to longer study times and increased pressure. We see the full funding of universities, especially universities of applied sciences, as a holistic task of the state that must not be shifted onto students. Therefore, we demand a comprehensive, nationwide funding model that ensures the long-term quality of teaching and research at all types of higher education institutions and includes the complete abolition of all tuition fees.
We view particularly critically that students from third countries are structurally disadvantaged from the start of their studies by having to pay significantly higher tuition fees. This must be abolished.
For a comprehensive mission of universities
For us, the mission of universities consists of three equal pillars: research, teaching, and social engagement/science communication.
In reality, however, research is prioritized due to financial considerations, which we students primarily feel through the lack of time resources for teaching staff.
In addition to teaching and research, disseminating scientific knowledge is more important than ever, especially in a time of increasing skepticism toward science.
Accordingly, we stand for a higher education policy based on three viable pillars on an equal footing.
Promoting science communication
Disseminating scientific knowledge is more important than ever in a time of increasing skepticism toward science. We see universities, but also us students, as responsible for reaching out to society through science communication. Therefore, more budget is needed for science communication at universities, as well as dedicated PR offices that support scientists in their external communications. We also see potential in ÖH magazines for students to communicate scientific findings to society.
For ethical reflection in teaching and research
We stand for responsible conduct in science. Research ethics begin in laboratories, lecture halls, or workshops, but do not end at the university's doorstep. Actions in scientific institutions have consequences for society as a whole. Scientists must be aware of this and disclose impact assessments for research projects. To ensure responsible conduct, we advocate for the establishment of independent staff units at universities to evaluate research projects regarding ethical issues. These should also serve as advisory centers for researchers, students, and teaching staff on the topic of ethical research. The origin of third-party funds should be disclosed to ensure transparency.
Teaching staff must also be aware of their responsibility and engage with ethical questions in their teaching content, encouraging students to consider topics holistically and critically question them.
Creation of ethics platforms
Ethics is a very relevant topic in both research and teaching. To make this more present at universities and to create a space for discussion among university members, an “ethics platform” should be mandatory at all universities. This platform should include representatives from all organizational units of the university as well as students. The ethics platform of the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna should serve as a model for this.