Studierendenwerke are an important structure at the various university locations, because studying is more than just lecture halls and exams. Whether in Görlitz, Zwickau, Leipzig or Dresden, the numerous services offered by the Studierendenwerke help to significantly improve everyday student life.
The best known are probably the canteens and the student halls. They offer an affordable and (usually) balanced range of meals, cafeterias not only offer drinks, coffee, snacks and snacks, but also workplaces on campus. Many students find their first home during their studies in halls of residence. Especially for students from far away places or for international students, there is not only a roof over their heads, but also the opportunity to get to know other people in a low-threshold way.
But these are just some of the offers made possible by the various Studierendenwerke. There is also a wide range of counselling services. Whether it’s student finance, legal issues or psychosocial support, all of this is available to students free of charge. There are also various support services for students in financial difficulties, such as emergency loans, help with graduation or the opportunity to get free meals in the canteens.
Another essential pillar is the promotion of student culture. The operation of student clubs is not possible without the financial and spatial support of the Studierendenwerke. But rehearsal rooms for bands or larger events, such as the Uni-Air or the Nachtwanderung in Dresden, are also impossible. In Leipzig, the administration of the semester ticket is also carried out by the Studentenwerk.
In addition, the Studierendenwerke also offer childcare for students and staff, various services to support international students and much more.
Of course, the Studierendenwerke don’t just take on all these tasks. They are obliged by the Saxon Higher Education Act to provide social, economic, health and cultural support and assistance to students.
And students are always involved in the important decisions: 50% of the votes in the central committee of a student union, the administrative board, belong to the students. The seats are filled by the student councils. This means that a decision such as increasing the semester fee cannot be made without student votes.
If you have any questions or requests regarding the work of your Studierendenwerk, you can therefore turn to your StuRa with confidence.