The year 2020, a truly unusual year, is coming to an end. Who would have thought last Christmas that a previously unknown virus would disrupt our plans to such an extent?” says Prof. Michael Weber, President of Ulm University in his Christmas speech.
For the first time in more than 50 years, the university had to be closed. Students had to work from home from one day to the next. President Weber expresses his gratitude to those who developed the infrastructure for digital teaching or moved their classes online. Special praise goes to the students who have displayed independence and perseverance in this largely virtual academic year. The coronavirus pandemic shows: “When we all work together, we can overcome exceptional situations,” says Weber. In this very special year, further highlights come to mind: Ulm University has seen a record amount of third-party funding and excellent positions in the Times Higher Education rankings. In addition, the coronavirus situation has revealed a great deal of creative potential and triggered a boost in digitalization. Although travel was hardly possible, researchers and staff at Ulm University were able to strengthen their cooperations with partners all over the world – be it in international research projects or in the YERUN-network.
At Ulm University we are optimistic about the future and hope that student life will return to the campuses all over Europe next year. Until then, Ulm University wishes all YERUN-members a Merry Christmas and a good, healthy start to 2021!
See the video of President Weber’s Christmas message: https://youtu.be/aKytHOElv3A
Article by Professor Michael Weber, President of Ulm University.
