HNEE is breaking new ground - our internal structural reform.

At the centre of our reform is the introduction of a modern matrix structure, organised into Schools and Departments. This system is designed to actively promote interdisciplinary collaboration, create synergies across different disciplines, and bring together knowledge and expertise more efficiently. The Departments assume a coordinating role, while the Schools drive interdisciplinary teaching and research. The matrix structure will make us more flexible and agile, enabling us to respond effectively to the dynamic challenges of our time. As a pioneer of sustainability transformation, and in the context of a constantly evolving higher education landscape, it is essential to establish structures that foster innovation and sustainable development. By strengthening connections between disciplines and enabling flexible collaboration across different fields, HNEE will become an even stronger trailblazer for sustainable solutions with impact at both regional and global levels.

A key success factor of this reform is its participatory approach, which involves all university status groups. Academic staff, professional staff, and students have been involved in the development process from the outset and are able to contribute their ideas and perspectives. This broad participation has not only strengthened acceptance of the new structures, but has also fostered a sense of community that extends beyond the implementation of the reform. In doing so, HNEE demonstrates that it is not only a pioneer in shaping sustainable development, but also in the development of modern organisational structures.

Through its internal structural reform process, HNEE is sending a signal far beyond its own institutional boundaries. We are positioning ourselves as a pioneer for higher education innovation in Brandenburg and as an example of how universities could be structured in the future to meet the growing demands of a sustainable society.