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Germany's Excellence Strategy Leaves Out Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Sparking Criticism
Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, the German state known for its marine science and biomedical research, has failed to secure funding from the Excellence Strategy, a joint initiative by federal and state governments. This omission has drawn criticism from various political factions in the region, including the SPD, CDU, and AfD.
Science Minister Bettina Martin (SPD) has faced criticism for the state's exclusion from the Excellence Strategy. Katy Hoffmeister, CDU's science policy spokeswoman in the state parliament, expressed concern that Mecklenburg-Vorpommern's research potentials weren't adequately supported and made nationally visible.
Among the 109 universities in Germany, 43 will receive additional funding for 'excellence clusters' over the next seven years. Projects in 13 federal states have recently been selected for this funding, with 539 million euros earmarked annually from 2026. Universities must be involved in at least two clusters or a consortium with at least three clusters to compete for the title of 'Excellence University,' which comes with an annual grant of 10 to 15 million euros.
The AfD faction's science politician, Paul Timm, warns that Mecklenburg-Vorpommern is at risk of being left behind due to the lack of substantial research funding. He believes that the absence of state start-up financing for applications within the Excellence Strategy framework hinders innovation, scientific excellence, and regional development.
While the CDU demands a strategic focus and targeted funding of outstanding research consortia, they also acknowledge a lack of political will to secure the state's participation in the next round of the Excellence Strategy. "It's not just about a title. It's about the future of the state, innovation, jobs, and competitiveness," opposition politician Hoffmeister said.
The Excellence Strategy was initiated a few years ago to boost the international reputation and image of German universities. Not securing funding through this strategy could have potential consequences for Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, such as a lack of high-profile research projects, decreased attractiveness to talent and investors, a reduced capacity for driving innovation and technological advancements, and a potential impact on competitiveness.
However, alternative opportunities such as collaborations with neighboring regions or countries could help mitigate these effects by leveraging existing strengths in sectors like renewable energy, digitalization, and biotechnology. Mecklenburg-Vorpommern may choose to focus on diverse partnerships and funding sources to ensure continued development and growth within its research ecosystem.
- The lack of federal and state funding for Mecklenburg-Vorpommern's research programmes, particularly in the areas of medical-conditions and health-and-wellness, has sparked criticism, with representatives from SPD, CDU, and AfD voicing concerns.
- The exclusion of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern from Germany's Excellence Strategy may result in less aid for research and development in the state, potentially hindering innovation, scientific excellence, and regional development.
- Contributions of high importance to the state, such as advancements in marine science and biomedical research, may no longer receive the necessary support due to the lack of funding through programmes like the Excellence Strategy, which affects the state's competitiveness and ability to drive innovation and technological advancements.
