Dear members of the TUBAF family,

The end of 2023 marks the end of another eventful year of successful innovation and collaboration. On behalf of the entire Rectorate of TU Bergakademie Freiberg, I would like to thank you all for your tireless commitment and dedication to our university.

The past year was once again characterised by numerous challenges. In particular, the cyberattack on the IT infrastructure in January had a major impact on university operations. The telephone system was initially out of order. No more emails went out from the university, none came in. Thanks to the immense efforts of the staff, the IT systems were restored step by step. As early as June, we were able to proudly present our new website thanks to the dedicated work of the numerous editors in the faculties, institutes and structural units as well as the web team. It increasingly functions as a modern information portal about our profile as a resource university and our impressive performance. The coming year will bring further improvements to our web presence. It is encouraging to see how this platform is continuously developing and growing, and I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to this and will continue to do so in the future.

In October, the new prestigious lecture theatre and library building with state-of-the-art teaching, learning and working conditions was opened in the heart of the campus. With the two new laboratory buildings at the Clemens-Winkler-Bau and the hall complex behind the Karl-Kegel-Bau, the science and study campus is continuing to develop. In 2024, the completion of the science corridor will bring the university and the city a little closer together.

The Freiberg University Forum - BHT will celebrate its 75th anniversary in 2024. In an exchange between science, business and society, it will be characterised by the discussion of issues relating to resource extraction and processing and the presentation of current research from all faculties. Another highlight will be the Night of Science and Business on 25 May, where we will present insights into current research, processes and innovations to a science-loving audience.

On behalf of my colleagues on the management team, I would like to wish you a happy and peaceful Christmas with your families and a joyful and optimistic New Year, the best of health and every success.

HAPPY 2024

Sincerely

Prof. Klaus-Dieter Barbknecht