On 8 April 2026, Mayor Simone Borris and Rector Prof. Dr.-Ing. Jens Strackeljan signed the new framework cooperation agreement, marking a further step in strengthening collaboration between the City of Magdeburg and the Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg.

The new partnership underlines the close connection between the two institutions. Mayor Simone Borris stresses the strategic importance of the university for the city’s future development. She describes the institution as an indispensable partner for the administration and highlights the significant potential that can be further unlocked through closer cooperation. The renewed agreement, she notes, elevates the partnership by defining common priorities, intensifying exchange and developing new formats of collaboration.

With around 15,000 university members, including more than 13,000 students from all over the world, the university also plays a major role in shaping everyday life in Magdeburg. Rector Prof. Dr.-Ing. Jens Strackeljan emphasises that the city’s future is closely linked to the strength of its university: “If the university grows, the city benefits as well: through skilled professionals, greater visibility, cultural diversity and economic substance.”

At the same time, the agreement establishes reliable structures to advance Magdeburg as a liveable, knowledge-driven and future-oriented city. It seeks to reinforce the city’s profile as a centre for science, entrepreneurship and technology, while linking education and research even more closely with urban society and expanding knowledge transfer between both partners. In addition, the framework is intended to create long-term prospects for skilled professionals in Magdeburg and the wider region.

To translate these ambitions into concrete action, five priority fields have been identified: urban development and innovation; internationalisation and welcoming culture; education and the retention of skilled professionals; science, society and culture; as well as cooperation culture and transfer. Concrete projects and measures will be set out in annual action plans. Alongside the strategic leadership of the Mayor and the Rector, a joint coordination team will support implementation, review progress and develop new initiatives, ensuring that the cooperation is permanently embedded in the structures of both partners.

A particular focus is placed on internationalisation. Both partners seek to improve support for international students and researchers, making it easier for them to begin their studies, careers and lives in Magdeburg, while opening long-term prospects in the city and region. This includes closer links between existing services such as the Welcome Service and other advisory and support structures, particularly regarding pathways into the regional labour market.

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Jens Strackeljan states: “Every year, hundreds of international students, academics and researchers come to the university and therefore to Magdeburg. Many stay for years, some forever. For a city in times of demographic change, this is more than an academic gain – it is a genuine factor for the future.”

Mayor Simone Borris also underlines the importance of creating a welcoming environment for international talent and strengthening opportunities for long-term integration into the city’s social and economic life. Through this approach, Magdeburg further enhances its international profile as an open, innovative and future-oriented university city.

Text: Katharina Vorwerk, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg

Photo: Romy Buhr, City of Magdeburg