Current issues: Thuringia, Germany, Europe and the entire world are experiencing a situation the like of which has never been seen before, as a result of the spread of the coronavirus. The coronavirus pandemic and the resulting restrictions on travel and contact have majorly impacted higher education – whether teaching and studies, research, or university operations as a whole. All university members (students, teachers and members of staff) have been subject to significant restrictions and extra burdens as a result of this unforeseeable development.

The summer semester was actually scheduled to have started early in April. Instead of groups of students enjoying their first coffee together in the sun in the Bauhaus.Atelier, the view at the moment is a single, seemingly lost pigeon pacing back and forth in the courtyard of the University Library. A deserted campus instead of a summer semester packed with events and projects? Not at all! The university and its faculties are working hard to get the semester ready, mostly from their home offices. The semester will definitely take place – but under very special conditions.

Dr. Winfried Speitkamp, President of the Bauhaus-Universität Weimar, has spoken out against the idea of making the 2020 summer semester non-credited (a »non-semester«). Instead, he has encouraged teachers and students to turn their attentions to current social issues and take a creative approach to the crisis.

What happens when you cough? With the help of a so-called Schlieren mirror, researchers in the Building Physics department make visible what is normally hidden from the naked eye: Air currents in a room. The short film impressively shows why we should follow the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommendations on how to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

All upcoming university events cancelled / TMWWDG meeting planned for 30 March to decide how things will move forward

The beginning of the semester at Thuringia’s universities has been postponed to 4 May 2020 as a preliminary measure. This decision was made at a meeting of the State President Conference at Thuringia’s Ministry of Science. This represents a university response to the continuing spread of the coronavirus. In addition, all university events such as concerts, lecture series and presentations will be cancelled. Each university will make its own decisions regarding whether to close its libraries. Furthermore, universities will consider how far they can make use of online and e-learning services in the interim.

Teaching at the Bauhaus University Weimar is officially prohibited by a general decree of the city of Weimar (currently until April 19). It is not possible to hold classroom events. Administrative and technical staff is not affected at this time. The presidium is making every effort to clarify all questions arising for students and staff and will inform you as soon as possible.