Fachhochschule Dortmund is strengthening its commitment to the prevention of violence and the safety of all university members. By joining the state-wide "Sicher im Dienst" network, the university is sending out a clear signal and benefiting from the exchange with more than 850 public service authorities and institutions in North Rhine-Westphalia.
Respectful cooperation and safe university locations are prerequisites for successful teaching, learning and working. In order to further strengthen these values and proactively ensure the safety of all, Fachhochschule Dortmund is now an official member of the #sicherimDienst network, an initiative of the NRW Ministry of the Interior. For Svenja Stepper, Chancellor of Fachhochschule Dortmund, this step is an important message to the entire university: "Being part of this network is a sign to all employees, lecturers and students that the topic of safety and violence prevention is important to us."
What characterizes the network?
The NRW initiative #sicherimDienst was launched to better protect employees in the public sector from threats, insults and assaults. The network serves as a central platform for prevention and exchange. Nadine Fasching, administrative project manager for crisis management at the UAS, emphasizes the benefits of membership: "'Sicher im Dienst' offers us a forum with concrete examples from practice, recommendations for action and ideas." It's about getting involved yourself and learning from others at the same time. "Copying is expressly encouraged here," adds Svenja Stepper.
The Chancellor makes it clear that membership complements and strengthens Fachhochschule Dortmund's internal efforts: "If we reach our limits on an issue, the network can connect and help us further. Joining does not replace our own efforts to ensure a safe environment, it is a supplement." There are already many people at the UAS who are actively involved in the topic of safety and prevention.
Although the network was originally conceived for employees at the institutions, Fachhochschule Dortmund also takes a holistic approach. "The focus of #sicherimDienst is on employees, but we also think about our students," emphasizes Nadine Fasching.
Representatives from the Equal Opportunities Office, staff councils, representatives for severely disabled employees, occupational safety, IT security, facility management and the threat management team were present at the award ceremony on July 28, 2025. By joining the #sicherimDienst network, Fachhochschule Dortmund will continue to expand its measures for a safe and respectful learning and working environment.