As of: February 26, 2024, 1:18 p.m
Comments
Press
Split
Bettina Erzgräber, rector of the Burg Giebichenstein Art Academy in Halle, stands in a workshop at the university.
© Hendrik Schmidt/dpa
A student at the art college in Halle felt discriminated against by a professor because of his background.
An investigation by the Senate commission shows that this was not intentional.
Halle - After allegations of racism, the Burg Giebichenstein Art University in Halle has presented the results of its investigations into the case.
“We confirm the personal experience and experiences of those affected as real from their point of view,” explained Rector Bettina Erzgräber on Monday in response to a request from the German Press Agency (dpa).
However, the Senate Commission's investigations revealed "no intentional racist-discriminatory behavior on the part of the professor," it said.
“We are aware that even statements that were not intended can be perceived as discriminatory,” said the rector.
The debate was sparked in January by a letter from 31-year-old student Andrew Moussa.
He stated that he had been discriminated against by a professor because of, among other things, his origins.
“A task was given out, the professor asked me whether I had ever drawn in my life,” reported the German-Egyptian in an interview with dpa.
“I found that very invasive.
When I asked her about it, she said I misunderstood her.
On another occasion she claimed that I draw from right to left because I am Arab.
I was finally overwhelmed.”
The university remains in close contact with the parties involved, it said.
In addition, she is continually working to further develop and launch formats to raise awareness and prevent discrimination, said Erzgräber.
Dealing with diversity, discrimination and racism should be discussed at a general meeting in April with the participation of students, teachers and employees.
There is also a working group that is supposed to develop further training programs.
Public events on the topic are planned for the summer semester.
dpa