"Only in a diverse a"d fair community innovation and excellence can thrive’

Bremerhaven University of Applied Sciences has been awarded the title "University with Strong Gender Equality" in the Female Professors Programme 2030. The programme is the central instrument of the federal and state governments to promote gender equality at universities. It aims to dynamically increase the proportion of women in top academic positions towards parity. At present, only a few women achieve highly remunerated positions in science because many female scientists drop out on the long road to these positions and are unable to pursue or continue their careers. The Women Professors Programme 2030 addresses this by supporting female academics on the path to a lifetime professorship and thus keeping them in the academic system. "I am delighted that three of our universities have now been awarded the title ‘University with Strong Gender Equality’," explained Kathrin Moosdorf, Senator for the Environment, Climate and Science, at a ceremony in Bremen City Hall. "This success underpins our claim to think science holistically. Gender equality is a sign of quality. It is extremely important that universities, like all of us, recognise this. I am therefore delighted that Bremen's universities are actively working to remove barriers for women in science and are committed to greater equality."

"A central strategic pillar in the competition for the best talent"

For Prof. Dr Dr h.c. Alexis Papathanassis, Rector of Bremerhaven University of Applied Sciences, the award is an important confirmation of Bremerhaven University's successful equal opportunities work: ‘This award fills us with pride and confidence,’ he explained in the presence of Bremerhaven University's Central Women's Representative at the ceremony. ‘And it confirms that our efforts are not only significant, but also effective. This attitude is also a central strategic pillar in the competition for the best talent. Because innovation and excellence can only thrive sustainably in a diverse and fair community.’

More female professors in Bremen than the national average

The Female Professors Programme 2030 strengthens gender equality structures at universities through specific projects, for example in the area of gender-equitable personnel development or academic career advice for young female academics. The programme has been running since 2008 and 32.9 percent of professorships in Bremen are now held by women (2022). This puts Bremen almost five percentage points above the national average of 28 per cent. To date, over 850 professorships have been funded nationwide.

Source: Senate Press Office / translated with DeepL