Harald Lesch about education and sustainability: is the university a utopia?

Harald Lesch about education and sustainability: is the university a utopia?

In the heart of Gießen, clear, haunting alarm sounded. Professor Harald Lesch, a brilliant head from the world of science and philosophy, opened the excited ring lecture “Education with the Future-Future through Education” at the renowned Justus Liebig University. Under the shaking title "The sustainable university - a utopia", he raised a gripping picture of the current situation in our educational institutions and raised questions that stimulate thinking.

The rush was huge! Lesch, grew up in Nieder-Ohmen, was not just an academic; He was an ambassador of change. He emphasized that education should not be a mere privilege and called for universities to focus more on critical thinking and social responsibility. JLU President Katharina Lorenz supported this statement and explained that the university was primarily about preparing future generations.

a university for all

Lesch explained energetic that universities are more than just places of science; You would have to actively participate in social discourses. His sharp words were aimed at the academics: "Far too few intellectuals interfere!" He angry that a large part of the scientists did not react publicly to the course in politics or questionable statements. The climate crisis, according to Lesch, would have had to be recognized as man -made, and since the 1950s!

In the course of his passionate speech, Lesch demanded an inner sustainability in education: "We have to think interdisciplinary at school!" In the long term, according to his appeal, universities should not only act economically, but also act as political spaces. These suggestions were well received by the audience. The ability of science to change and shape society is essential.

his provocative comparison of science with "a hemorrhoid on the butt" caused a smile and thoughtfulness at the same time. "We have to be the needle that sticks out the splash of ignorance!" Lesch’s haunting call for active interference in social and political questions was strongly supported by his colleagues. Pouring could play a pioneering role when it comes to creating a sustainable university. The challenges are great, but the will to change is there!