"Investments in universities are investments in the future - in the digital transformation, in a sustainable economy and in social cohesion," the resolution states. The student-teacher ratios in NRW are already among the worst in Germany. Further cuts would inevitably lead to a deterioration in study conditions, a decline in research performance and a loss of specialised staff. The senates emphasise the central role of universities: they qualify high-ranking specialists for business, schools, social services and culture, contribute to regional innovation and increase the state's international visibility. A reduction in these services would have serious consequences - from rising drop-out rates and fewer start-ups to a drop in third-party funding.

"With these cuts, the state of North Rhine-Westphalia would not be investing in the future, but rather weakening its economic, social and cultural attractiveness," warn the senates. Instead, reliable basic funding is needed to enable universities to fulfil their responsibilities - from technological innovations to solutions for social challenges such as polarisation or a shortage of skilled workers.

The resolution was passed by the senates of the following universities: RWTH Aachen University, Bielefeld University, Ruhr University Bochum, Dortmund University of Technology, University of Duisburg-Essen, FernUniversität in Hagen, German Sport University Cologne, University of Cologne, University of Siegen, University of Wuppertal. The senates consist of elected representatives from the four groups of university lecturers, academic staff, technical and administrative staff and students.