Education for Democracy – A University Responsibility? Conference at the University of Münster in March 2026

How can universities strengthen democratic education amid social polarization and growing skepticism towards science? This question will be front and center at a nationwide expert conference hosted by the University of Münster on 13 March 2026, organised together with German U15 and the Foundation for Innovation in University Teaching (Stiftung Innovation in der Hochschullehre).

The Future Lab is supporting the Vice-Rector for Teaching and Learning in designing and organising this major event. What sets the format apart is that it brings together university leaders, academic staff, researchers, higher-education teaching specialists, educational scientists, and experts in knowledge transfer, the third mission, and science communication with policymakers, associations, foundations, and civil-society organizations—interdisciplinary, participatory, and on an equal footing, fully aligned with our mission.

As part of the 10th German U15 Dialogue on Teaching, the conference will take place under the theme: “Education for Democracy as a Mandate for University Teaching? The Responsibility of Universities in Times of Societal Change.” Our aim is to showcase good practice, spark ideas for strategic development, and foster new networks.

The programme features talks, practice spotlights, and workshops on topics including interdisciplinary dialogue, collaboration with politics and society, and pedagogical challenges in higher education.

Save the date

📅 13 March 2026
📍 University of Münster

The conference language is German. Further details on registration and opportunities to get involved will follow shortly.