Bielefeld University turns 50 this year β which is a great reason to celebrate. And the university does just that: researchers and instructors, students, staff from technical services and administration, alumni, and the public of the city of Bielefeld enjoy a year-long festive programme with many events for different target groups. The anniversary festivities serve to increase the visibility of the university in both Bielefeld and the surrounding region, strengthening the linkages among the city, the public, and the campus.
This is the aim of the expansive programme that already began in November with the publication of this timeline. There are several events throughout the year that stand out in particular.
In May, as part of the anniversary gala with invited guests from politics, business, science, and society, a lively show is presented, including variety acts, a panel discussion, and as the pinnacle of the evening, a symphony of modern classical music composed especially for the occasion β though the piece is admittedly a bit challenging for some guests.
Some listeners leave the Rudolf Oetker Hall in consternation, but this does not detract from the festive atmosphere of the evening. In September, the university holds the Uni. This festival offers public science project presentations, games for children and families alike, and a musical programme from the university orchestra as well as international bands performing on a Radio-Hertz stage. There is something to discover about science for all ages, from a physics experiment demonstration for the kids, to a beer-brewing demonstration for the adults.
The official ceremony to mark the founding of the university takes place on 4 October: keynote speaker Professor Dr. Researchers from around Germany and the world come together to discuss the future of the university. A student conference called Student Research β Students Do Science is held in parallel, where over 30 students present their research projects. There is also a two-day festival for students at the Lokschuppen event space with bands and DJs, as well as a big party for staff members at city hall.
