Can Rüsselsheim become the next university town star?

Can Rüsselsheim become the next university town star?

University City - a title that not only comes across as an award, but is also an important marketing tool for cities. Rüsselsheim could soon follow in Idstein's footsteps and aim for status as a university town. But what does this mean for the city and its development? This question becomes particularly clear when you look at the successes of the university town of Idstein. The city was named the first university town in Hesse by the Hessian Ministry of the Interior in 2016 and has achieved a lot since then.

Idstein, known for the Fresenius University of Applied Sciences, offers a wide range of courses in the areas of biosciences, applied chemistry, speech therapy and therapeutic sciences. This university, which was founded in Wiesbaden in 1848, has developed a strong connection to the city since moving into the historic buildings of the former building school in 1995. Around 1,300 students now use the offer in Idstein, while around 12,000 students are enrolled at other locations across Germany. Over the years, the city has adapted its logo to incorporate the title “university city,” and today it has become part of the city’s self-image, as Main-Spitze reports.

Opportunities and challenges for Rüsselsheim

But Rüsselsheim faces the question of whether it has the potential to also be perceived as a university town. Experts emphasize that the title of university city is not only a prestige, but also provides economic stimulus. The conference “The University City: a Model for the Future of Germany” in Jena illustrated this with many ideas for better interlinking between cities and universities. Over 200 participants discussed how universities can be seen as economic assets and how cooperation with cities can be promoted. Cities like Rüsselsheim could continue to benefit from this network.

Another crucial point is city marketing. The “university town” has proven to be a strategic cornerstone to increase the city’s visibility, which could benefit Rüsselsheim. The recommendations for action mentioned, such as the institutionalization of cooperation between universities and cities, offer clear approaches that could also be important for Rüsselsheim.

A look at Idstein

Idstein is a prime example of how such a title can be used. Positive examples are projects such as the “Kulturbahnhof”, which were implemented in collaboration with the university, and the Pioneer Lab, which supports founders. Fresenius University has used innovative ideas to spice up the city and create a lively university environment. The cozy student residence in the Nassau district and a modern campus building complement the charming backdrop.

The city benefits from the university's international contacts and always warmly welcomes students, lecturers and guests. According to Idstein, the positive effects of the university concept on the city and university have brought the region to a new level.

Rüsselsheim therefore has every opportunity to achieve the university town label. It remains exciting to see whether this vision can be implemented and what steps the city will take to achieve these ambitious goals.