Christmas greetings 2025

A Year Full of New Beginnings and New Connections

In his Christmas message, the Rector of Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Alexander Kratzsch, looks back on a year marked by important reforms, strong partnerships, and tangible momentum for the region.

Among the most important developments is the restructured University Executive Board, which began its work at the start of the year and is providing clear direction for the university’s strategic development. Another notable milestone was the introduction of the digital Campus Card, with which HSZG became the first university in Saxony to create a modern and more accessible learning environment.

In the areas of International Affairs and future technologies, the university was able to significantly strengthen its role. A key focus was on the semiconductor industry, where the HSZG is opening up new avenues for development in collaboration with regional and international partners. The International Economic Conference on the Semiconductor Industry, as well as the intensive discussions held by a university delegation in Taiwan, Japan, and Singapore in October, have significantly deepened international networking and cooperation in this field of the future. The two new degree programs , “Semiconductor Processes and Materials Chemistry” and “Mechatronics for Manufacturing,” are direct components of this strategic direction.

With the opening of the DLR_School_Lab, the first International Day, and the Teaching Day , and a variety of scientific events, the university’s aspiration to be a forward-looking center of learning in Upper Lusatia became evident. At the same time, the groundbreaking ceremony for the large CircEcon research campus marked a high point for the region’s further development amid structural change.

Looking ahead to the coming years, Prof. Kratzsch emphasizes the implementation of the University Development 2030+ plan. The new faculty structure, the international transition to the 6+4 model, and the establishment of central facilities such as the Digital Service Center and the Neisse Talent & Innovation Hub are intended to strengthen the university in the long term.

On behalf of the University Executive Board, Prof. Alexander Kratzsch thanks all students, staff, and partners of the university for their commitment and trust, and wishes everyone a peaceful Christmas season, restful days, and a hopeful start to the year 2026.