Rector Prof. Wolfram Ressel has signed the new version of the Magna Charta Universitatum, just in time for Europe Weeks, which traditionally take place as part of the events surrounding May 9 each year.
First published in 1988, several hundred European universities committed to the principles and values embedded in this document, or declaration. Today, the Magna Charta boasts over 900 supporting universities from 88 countries across the world.
The Magna Charta symbolizes a commitment to shared values and principles – such as independence, freedom of science, unity of research and teaching, and tolerance. And, hand in hand with these principles, it also demands the assumption of responsibility. The signatory universities commit themselves to ensuring that their research and teaching are aligned with ethical values, to encouraging diversity of opinion and to harnessing independent thinking and the fruits of science for the benefit of society and for the protection of our environment.
Rector Prof. Wolfram Ressel emphasizes: “Even after more than two decades, the Magna Charta Universitatum has lost none of its significance. On the contrary, in view of the global challenges we are facing today, its demands and aspirations are more virulent than ever before - and these go hand in hand with the University of Stuttgart's self-image. In particular, with the goals defined in the university's mission statement; educating people to think in an integrative and global way, and teaching them to act responsibly, promoting diversity and equal opportunities, as well as developing a culture of integration and ensuring that the future of our society is shaped responsibly. These goals are all reflected in the maxims of the charta.”