Introduction
16 June 2026
Just under a year after the signing of the Higher Education Pact 2026–2031, it can be stated: JLU is on schedule – and is actively shaping its future.
Shaping the future of JLU
In recent months, the Executive Board, together with all faculties and large parts of the presidential administration, has worked intensively on the future of JLU: analyzing challenges and developing initial future concepts. These concepts are guided by the university's strategic framework: a flexible range of subjects, successful study programs, visible cutting-edge research, and both internal and external cooperation.
A significant milestone has thus been achieved. The phase of consolidation now begins: by autumn 2026, the concepts will be merged, aligned at a higher level, and integrated into medium-term planning. The goal is a JLU that remains scientifically strong, financially viable, and capable of long-term action.
Academic breadth to be maintained
Financially, JLU also remains within its planning parameters; recent collective bargaining agreements have remained within the expected range. The required annual savings of approximately 25 million euros remain achievable – based on the current state of affairs – without having to abandon entire faculties of the university. Thus, the breadth of subjects and interdisciplinarity, a particular strength of JLU, will be preserved.
At the same time, the restructuring is palpable throughout the entire university. More than 100 full-time equivalents (FTEs) have already been reduced; tasks, processes, and structures are changing, and some things will no longer be possible in the future.
The fact that JLU has been able to pursue this path is due to the commitment of its members and staff: in faculties, administration, services, and infrastructure, employees and managers make a daily contribution to simultaneously consolidating and further developing the university. The Executive Board expresses its explicit gratitude for this.
Changes of this magnitude require time, careful coordination, and sustainable decisions. JLU aims to maintain academic visibility, strategic focus, and future resilience within an increasingly challenging environment.