Responsibility Weeks 2026
TU Dresden aims to become an exemplary model of a socially responsible, sustainable institution that promotes equality, diversity, and cosmopolitanism and has a positive impact on society. As an employer and educational institution, the university bears responsibility not only for its members but also, as a driving force in the region, for our social cohesion. Under the leadership of the University Culture Department, the Weeks of Responsibility will once again take place at TU Dresden this November. For one month, the program will feature a wide range of exciting events on the topics of diversity, sustainability, health, and anti-discrimination. In the true spirit of the “Dresden Spirit,” all members of the university community will also have the opportunity to take responsibility themselves, get involved, or further their education.
Table of contents
Program
All events offered as part of the Weeks of Responsibility are free of charge and are open to both staff and students at TU Dresden. Registration is required for some events. If you need assistance due to language or other barriers, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Eliminating Violence Against Women and Gender-Based Violence
On the occasion of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women on November 25, TU Dresden would like to take a stand in the spirit of responsibility and use this day to raise awareness about gender-based violence. Violence against women, non-binary, and transgender people is a universal phenomenon that cannot be confined to specific nations, religions, educational backgrounds, or income levels. This issue does not stop at the university’s doors or its members. A variety of free events are designed to raise awareness and decisively combat all forms of violence at every level.
November 2, 2026, starting at 6:00 p.m. | Film with introduction: *Sorda* – The Sound of the World
Directed by Eva Libertad and starring her sister, the deaf actress Miriam Garlo, in the lead role, “Sorda” offers an intimate and realistic portrayal of motherhood from the perspective of a deaf woman. The film is a bold cinematic work, especially in a film landscape where people with hearing impairments are still rarely portrayed—and when they are, it’s often in a stereotypical manner.
“Sorda” deliberately avoids sentimental clichés and portrays its protagonist, Ángela, as a multifaceted woman full of doubts and inner conflicts, with overwhelming emotional depth. On a technical level, too, the film becomes a sensory experience. Through the deliberate use of sound, silence, and visual storytelling, the audience is immersed in the perceptual world of a deaf person.
Beyond its cinematic merit, “Sorda” opens up a much-needed space for exploring accessibility, empathy, and compassion. The film also addresses the issue of birth trauma.
November 2, 2026, starting at 6:00 p.m. // Zentralkino // Original version with subtitles (Original language: Spanish)
Admission is free. (Event as part of the Diversity Days at TU Dresden)
- November 20, 2026 // 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
- Workshop Leader: Anja Wiede, Contact Person for the TUD Complaints Office regarding incidents of harassment, discrimination, and violence
- Short in-person workshop
- Open to TUD employees
- Registration
Through its participation in the Unisafe research project, TUD is addressing the phenomenon of sexual harassment, discrimination, and violence at universities. The workshop therefore begins with an overview of definitions and statistical data. Project coordinator and workshop leader Anja Wiede then works with participants to explore their own attitudes and potential biases regarding the topic. The focus, however, is on the support options available in such situations, because even though most people do not experience sexual harassment, discrimination, and violence firsthand, many find themselves in the role of so-called “bystanders” (conscious or unconscious witnesses). In the spirit of shared responsibility, the participants therefore develop their own strategies for intervention.
Equality, quotas for women, and gender-sensitive language: Lightheartedness and humor are often lost in these discussions, giving rise to deep-seated conflicts. In this interactive and humorous workshop with Eva Ullmann, we’ll take a lighthearted approach to tackling sexism. Humor as a rhetorical tool isn’t just a stylistic device for a few rose-colored frills. Humor grabs attention and sheds light on important issues that are often swept under the rug. Humor creates surprise and discomfort when individuals or groups try to dodge important aspects of equality. Humor as social glue brings people together. Humor as a weapon, on the other hand, creates a hard-nosed sense of distance and protection. Both styles of humor are important tools in the fight against sexism and for greater equality, and will be the focus of the workshop.
The workshop will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in spoken German. The advisor is Eva Ullmann from the German Institute for Humor in Leipzig. The event will take place on the Johannstadt Campus in the lecture hall of the Department of Orthopedics.
You can register via this page on the Marburger Bund website (anyone interested can register: https://www.marburger-bund.de/sachsen/veranstaltung/mit-humor-gegen-sexismus
Take Notice. Take Action. Offer Support.
Campus Walk on Addressing Harassment, Discrimination, and Violence at the University
Date: November 25, 2026, 2:00–4:00 p.m.
How can we recognize when boundaries are being crossed? What can we do if we are affected ourselves or witness something? And where can we find support?
We’ll discuss these questions during a group walk across campus. At various stops, we’ll talk about examples from everyday university life, learn about resources, and explore ways to act in solidarity. We’ll also discuss how to intervene in situations that make us feel unsafe—for example, by asking questions, distracting the person, or involving others. The focus will be on the wishes of those affected and on ensuring our own safety.
The Campus Walk is open to all students and staff. The route includes the typical barriers found on campus.
The tour will be led by Anja Wiede, the contact person for the Complaints Office.
The Pandu event series invites you to a digital lunch talk via Zoom on Thursday, November 26, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. This discussion is part of the program weeks organized for the sixth consecutive year by the TU Dresden’s Office for Complaints Regarding Harassment, Discrimination, and Violence in observance of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
The discussion will focus on how digital violence—such as that caused by smart-home technologies and AI—is increasingly impacting physical reality. Together with experts from academia and the field, including Michaela Burkard (bff: Active Against Digital Violence), Victor Jüttner (ScaDS.AI Dresden/Leipzig), and Dr. Katrin Etzrodt (TU Dresden), the discussion will focus on how the abuse of power can be more effectively addressed in future technology development and cybersecurity practices.
8.00-9.00 a.m.
To mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, “Vielfalt to go” is focusing on the intersection of anti-Muslim racism and sexism.
Muslim women and women perceived as Muslim may be affected by specific forms of discrimination and violence in which racist and sexist stereotypes interact. But how does this intersection manifest itself in everyday life? What societal perceptions and structural conditions play a role here? And what does an intersectional perspective mean for addressing discrimination and violence—including in the higher education context?
Together with speakers from the Alliance Against Anti-Muslim Racism in Saxony and the Dresden Foreigners’ Council, we will examine social mechanisms, concrete experiences, and possible courses of action for creating a discrimination-sensitive university environment.
Access to the room (Please log in using your real name.)
Please also note the event’s Code of Conduct.
- 01/12/2026 // 1 – 4 p.m.
- Instructor: Anja Wiede, TUD Complaint Office in cases of discrimination harassment, violence
- face-to-face workshop
- for staff members
- registration
With its own participation in the Unisafe research project, TU Dresden is addressing the phenomenon of sexualised harassment, discrimination and violence at universities. The workshop therefore begins with an overview of definitions and statistical figures. Project coordinator and workshop leader Anja Wiede (contact person for harassment, discrimination and violence at TU Dresden) then works with the participants on their own attitudes and possible prejudices on the topic. Nevertheless, the focus is on the support options for these incidents, because even if most people do not have to experience sexualised harassment, discrimination and violence as victims, many find themselves as so-called ‘bystanders’ ((un)aware witnesses). In the sense of a collective responsibility, the participants therefore develop their own intervention options.
Nationwide Networking Event Organized by the BuKoF Commission on Sexual Discrimination and Violence on College Campuses
Student engagement can drive change—including in the fight against sexual violence at universities. But how does an idea become a project? What experiences do students have along the way, and how can they support one another?
We invite students and interested individuals from all over Germany to learn about four projects and engage in discussion with one another. The event will feature an open letter on safety in restrooms from Berlin, the Feminist Law Clinic from Cologne, the “Betrifft uns” initiative from Koblenz, and a survey on sexual harassment at a medical school in Würzburg. The organizers will provide insights into their work and share experiences, challenges, and inspiration for participants’ own initiatives.
The event offers an opportunity to ask questions, contribute your own ideas and projects, and make new connections. Everyone is welcome: those who are already involved, as well as those who would like to get involved and are looking for a way to get started.
Afterward, the focus will be on discussion among students. Together, we’d like to talk about what kind of support is needed and how we can build lasting networks across university boundaries. To create a space for student discussion, university staff will step out during this part of the event.
The bukof Commission on Sexualized Violence at Universities aims to facilitate and support this networking. The goal is to collectively highlight needs at universities and give greater weight to student concerns in higher education policy work.
Access to the room: Please log in using your real name.
Please also observe the event’s Code of Conduct.
Take Notice. Take Action. Offer Support.
Campus Walk on Addressing Harassment, Discrimination, and Violence at the University
Date: December 2, 2026, 1:00–3:00 p.m., fountain in front of the Barkhausen Building (Helmholtzstraße 18)
How can we recognize when boundaries are being crossed? What can we do if we’re affected ourselves or witness something? And where can we find support?
During a group walk across campus, we’ll discuss these questions. At various stops, we’ll talk about examples from everyday university life, learn about resources, and explore ways to act in solidarity. We’ll also discuss how to intervene when we feel unsafe—for example, by asking questions, distracting the person, or bringing others in. The focus will be on the wishes of those affected and on our own safety.
The Campus Walk is open to all students and staff. The route includes the typical barriers found on campus.
The tour will be led by Anja Wiede, the contact person for the Complaints Office.
- December 3, 2026 // 1:00–4:00 p.m.
- Instructor: Nadja Gottschalk, media educator specializing in digital (technology-enabled) violence
- In-person workshop
- for TUD employees
- Registration
Anti-feminist and sexist attacks are increasingly taking place in the digital space as well: ranging from derogatory comments and provocations in a targeted manner to hate speech, harassment, and threats.
This workshop teaches strategies for recognizing such dynamics early on, understanding them, and responding confidently. Together, we’ll examine typical patterns of digital attacks and explore when a response is appropriate and when self-protection and setting boundaries take priority. Participants will learn specific ways to protect themselves online, set boundaries, and seek support. The goal is not to feel compelled to react to every situation, but rather to strengthen one’s own capacity to take action.
The Wendo course provides a space to discover your own strengths, recognize your limits, and stand up for yourself with confidence. Practical exercises in self-assertion and self-defense offer strategies for handling challenging situations. No prior experience is required
Those interested can register now through November 25, 2026, at . We are looking to schedule a group session in January.
Sustainability
TU Dresden is firmly rooted in the local community and, as a global stakeholder, strives to develop into an environmentally responsible and sustainable institution in order to fulfill its responsibility toward society and future generations. Environmental and climate protection, as well as ecological sustainability, are high priorities at TU Dresden. The TU Dresden Green Office also offers a number of additional events.
Organic leather made from kombucha? You can get creative with homemade “biomaterials” made from food scraps. Lina Staffa from the IAK at TU Dresden explains what lies behind food waste and what can technically be made from organic waste, while Paula Meier from the Culture and Makerspace in Augustusburg will show you at the SLUB Makerspace practical ways to create new materials from food scraps and how you can further process them using the equipment in the makerspace.
If your household appliance stops working or needs repairs, you can now visit the RepairCafé on campus for help. This self-help workshop helps visitors, under the guidance of tech-savvy volunteers, hopefully get their broken appliance working again.
Are you interested in sustainability and would like to promote it at TU Dresden—in your faculty, your Unit, or even your Faculty Student Council or university group—but don’t know where to start? Would you like to start conversations with colleagues and fellow students about sustainability and sustainable work and living, but are facing challenges in doing so? Or perhaps you’re unsure where to find information and simply want to network more to advance the issue and meet like-minded people. We want to take a concrete look at possible starting points for action.
Speaker: Charlotte Böhm (Senior Advisor for Sustainability and AI, Community Management/sustAInability, Munich University of Applied Sciences)
Feeling overwhelmed by proper waste sorting? Questions can arise, especially when it comes to textiles. The Office for Urban Greenery and Waste Management is here to help and is available at the Makerspace to offer advice on all aspects of textile disposal. If you want to do more than just dispose of old textiles properly—if you want to create something new from them—we also have materials, ideas, and support for you here! New covers for electronic devices or collage-style textile wall art?—All projects and ideas are welcome. Old tarps and banners were donated by the Green Office at TU Dresden and the Office for Urban Greenery.
What steps must TUD take to achieve greenhouse gas neutrality by 2030? This informational event invites interested members of the TUD community to learn more about the newly adopted climate protection plan, engage in discussion, and explore opportunities to get involved together.
Get to know each other over a cup of coffee. The Sustainable Coffee Hour welcomes all stakeholders and anyone interested in sustainability. Here, you’ll learn what’s happening in the field of sustainability and who is involved, how, and where.
Your last-minute Christmas gift can be sustainable! Together with you, we’ll make candle arches and other festive (gift) ideas—using old scraps of material! Because not everything that glitters has to be new. We’ll learn what the concept of “sufficiency” means from Professor Christina Dornack of the IAK.
Presenters: Dr.phil. Sandra Buchmüller & Dr.-Ing. habil. Adrian Ehrenhofer (Chair of Thermodynamics & Chair of Mechanics of Multifunctional Structures, TU Dresden)
University and Society
Providing the local community with low-threshold access to knowledge and scientific research, while at the same time drawing on external impulses, is a central aspect of TUD’s university culture. We view respectful dialogue as the foundation for a democratic community.
Midterm for the research project “Dresden University of Technology under National Socialism.” The midterm conference offers researchers involved in the project a forum to discuss their findings with recognized experts in the fields of higher education, science, technology, medicine, and contemporary history. A keynote lecture and scholarly commentary will contextualize the presentations within current research debates and provide an initial scholarly assessment of the project’s progress to date.
How did the Dresden University of Technology behave during the Nazi era? What scope of action did scholars have within a totalitarian system—and what responsibilities did universities bear in times of political and social extremes? Anyone interested in the history of TU Dresden and its reappraisal is cordially invited to attend.
Democracy thrives on diversity, respect, and solidarity as well as a shared commitment to human rights and equality. With the continuing education series “Courage – knowing, seeing, acting”, TUD invites its employees in particular to engage with current anti-democratic challenges, deepen their knowledge, and develop practical skills for their studies, teaching, and daily work. Through inspiring lectures, interactive workshops, and practical discussion formats, the series creates space for reflection, discussion, and practical insights — with the goal of strengthening an open, respectful, and discrimination-sensitive university culture.
How is antisemitism perpetuated and experienced within institutions? We are pleased to welcome Prof. Dr. Friederike Lorenz-Sinai from the University of Tübingen to our public evening lecture titled “Institutional Antisemitism.” Drawing on empirical research, she will examine Jewish experiences before and after October 7, 2023: How are exclusion, discrimination, and violence experienced? What historical continuities persist—and what responsibilities do they entail for institutions and a democratic society?
- When: November 4, 7:00–9:00 p.m.
- Where: ABS Lecture Hall E11 (August-Bebel-Straße 20, 01219 Dresden)
How can the diversity of Jewish life and perspectives critical of antisemitism be conveyed in higher education? The two-day workshop offered as part of the “Jewish Everyday Life in Germany” accompanying course combines practical experience with academic perspectives. The focus is on the challenges of teaching, forms of representation of antisemitism, and approaches to educational and preventative work. The event provides a space for exchange, networking, and the further development of the accompanying course.
- Click here for the program.
- Registration by email is required.
It’s always someone else who calls the shots: In class, one kid sets the tone; parents decide how much screen time you get; and you don’t even get to choose your own homework. But who actually gets to make the decisions? Here, kids and families can discuss these questions: Where does power come from? When should you stand up for yourselves? What does responsibility mean? How do we find rules for getting along well together?
Featuring: KIKA host Alex Huth, political scientist Stefanie Gerstenberger, linguist Prof. Simon Meier-Vieracker, author Assata Frauhammer, and illustrator Claudia Weikert.
Grief doesn’t only manifest itself after a death. It also arises during a breakup, when a child moves out, or when parents need care—sometimes even before the actual farewell. Often, we only notice exhaustion or restlessness and rarely talk about it at work.
This presentation invites you to take a moment to reflect: What is grief, how does it manifest itself, and what helps us maintain our action-taking capacity in our daily lives? You’ll take away clear frameworks and practical insights for yourself and for working together as a team.
Just listening is enough: No one will be asked to share anything personal.
“Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree—What’s the Forest Doing in the Living Room?” with Prof. Michael Müller, Chair of Forest Protection
Fragrant needles, sparkling ornaments, and gifts underneath—for most people, the Christmas tree is simply part of the holiday. But is a real tree actually good for nature and species conservation, and what do our Christmas traditions have to do with life in the forest? Together with Prof. Michael Müller, we’ll get to the bottom of these questions, explore alternatives, and discover what actually makes a tree a Christmas tree. An event for the whole family to think about, marvel at, and discuss!
Diversity
An important part of the Weeks of Responsibility are the Diversity Days. TU Dresden sees itself as an inclusive university where diversity is a given. For a decade now, the Diversity Management office at TU Dresden has been committed to valuing the diversity of its associate members and ensuring equal opportunities for them.
Diversity Days 2026: What We Don’t See – Invisible Realities on Campus
From November 2 to 7, 2026, Diversity Days at TUD will be held under the theme “What We Don’t See – Invisible Realities on Campus.” Workshops, discussions, creative activities, and readings invite participants to engage in dialogue and reflection. The focus will be on a wide range of topics that often remain hidden yet shape the daily lives of many people at the university.
For most families, the birth of a child is a positive experience; however, the transition to parenthood can present challenges. Two studies in Dresden are currently examining both the subjective experience of childbirth among (expectant) parents and the subsequent development of family members up until the children reach school age.
How does racism manifest itself in everyday life? What prejudices and stereotypes shape our view of other people, and what can photography reveal that often goes unnoticed in everyday life? The photographs on display address experiences of racism, discrimination, societal stereotypes, and structural inequality.
Healthy University
Especially during times of high demands—whether in school, at work, or at home—everyone wants to stay healthy or improve their health. That’s why TU Dresden’s University Health Management (intranet link) offers university members numerous programs that promote a healthy learning and working environment.
Recognize. Address. Support. Mental Health First Aid
This informational event offers fascinating insights into the MHFA (Mental Health First Aid) concept, the support provided by mental health first aiders, and the training program. We look forward to exchanging ideas with you.
Where? Online
Who? Members of the TUD community
To register
Amid lectures, meetings, projects, and the stresses of everyday life, short breaks often get neglected. The Mindful Break offers a brief respite to recharge and consciously find peace. Through elements of light movement, mindful body awareness, and short meditations, this session demonstrates how mindfulness can be easily integrated into your daily work or study routine.
What are the warning signs of a mental health crisis? Where can you find support at TUD to cope with them? You can learn about this and more in the online forum “Studying with Mental Well-Being.”
In November, we’re focusing on men’s health and highlighting various topics. Look forward to the exclusive online event series “Mustache, Courage, and Medicine #Men’sHealth” from Techniker Krankenkasse.
When Your Resume Is Part of the Course—How to Leave Career Pressure Behind in the Lecture Hall | How It Works with Theresa Ziegler
For many students, grades aren’t the biggest concern. Between lectures, part-time jobs, and job applications, the pressure to make the right career decision as early as possible is mounting. In this discussion, we’ll explore: When is a career plan helpful, and when does anxiety about the future become a problem? Does a degree program really have to lead directly to a specific job, or should there be room for detours, mistakes, and changes of course? On “How it works,” we’ll hear from Theresa Ziegler, journalist and content creator, Elias Jessen, psychologist and founder of Social Proof, and Dr. Anne-Marie Lachmund, assistant professor of Romance language didactics at the Institute of Romance Studies at TU Dresden, will discuss this topic with ZEIT Campus host Christoph Farkas. Following the event, we invite you to network over snacks and drinks at the get-together.
We all procrastinate—especially when our daily student life allows it! So it’s high time to take a closer look at why we procrastinate and, above all, what we can do about it! As part of this virtual presentation, the speaker will share various tips and tricks for avoiding procrastination, and participants are warmly invited to discuss their own experiences and solutions.
What kind of procrastinator are you? In this workshop, discover ways to tackle your tasks in a more relaxed and successful manner.
Would you like to gain unique insights into state-of-the-art production and research in the semiconductor industry while developing key skills for your career? Then the “Semiconductor Talent Incubation Program” (STIPT) in Taiwan is the perfect fit for you. The six-month STIPT program combines an academic curriculum in the field of semiconductors with hands-on training at TSMC, a global leader in the semiconductor sector. From March through June or September through December, you’ll study at a leading Taiwanese university. Afterward, in July/August or January/February, you’ll complete several weeks of hands-on training at TSMC’s Newcomer Training Center & Fab in Taichung.
Are you neurodivergent, or do you suspect you might be? Do traditional learning and study techniques tend to cause you frustration rather than provide relief? It doesn’t have to be that way! In our workshop, we’ll provide you with tips and techniques tailored to you and your needs. In a safe and supportive environment, we’ll discuss common challenges and come up with practical solutions to make your everyday university life easier.
Test anxiety is normal and even important, as it can actually boost your performance and motivation. But what can help keep stress and anxiety during exams at a moderate level? That’s what we’ll explore in this seminar, which offers opportunities for discussion, tips, and self-reflection, among other things.
Mental health challenges and crises among students have long been a part of everyday life on college campuses. Many faculty members encounter situations that raise questions: How can we recognize signs of distress? What helps when dealing with difficult situations? And what options do faculty members actually have?
What are the warning signs of a mental health crisis? Where can you find support at TUD to cope with them? You can learn about this and more at the online event “Mental Well-Being on Campus”
Feel-Good Food in Germany Moving to a new country often means adjusting to different eating habits, finding alternatives to foods you miss, and figuring out what works for you in your new daily life. Changes in diet and exposure to new allergens can sometimes cause unfamiliar symptoms after eating. The first talk offers a starting point for understanding possible causes and exploring when it might be worth investigating them further. The second provides practical inspiration for building healthy new habits and navigating balanced eating in Germany. Talk 1: Food & Allergies — What’s Behind the Symptoms? Why can allergies develop or appear for the first time after moving to a new environment? We’ll explore this question and then focus on the topics you’re most interested in: pollen allergies, food allergies, intolerances (lactose, fructose, and gluten), food additives, or vitamin D supplementation.
The Forum for Faculty provides a space to explore these questions together. The focus is on skill development, shifting perspectives, and mutual learning. Together with the expert duo from Irrsinnig Menschlich e.V., we address mental health during college, typical warning signs of mental stress, and support and assistance services both on and off campus. It is explicitly not our intention to train faculty members to be therapists or to provide universal answers to complex situations. Rather, we aim to offer inspiration, highlight different perspectives, and provide guidance for everyday life on campus.
What does a balanced diet look like in everyday life? We’ll explore the basics and then dive into the topics of your choice: protein, healthy drinks, healthy fats, or brain food. Discover what helps you feel good, eat well, and navigate the food scene in Germany.
Mental health challenges and crises among students have long been a part of everyday life on college campuses. Many faculty members encounter situations that raise questions: How can we recognize signs of distress? What helps when dealing with difficult situations? And what options do faculty members actually have?