How do we want to live in the future?
We must ask ourselves this question in times of climate crisis, artificial intelligence, social change, and new challenges for democracy and cohesion. In the Utopias knowledge round, scientists and the audience take a look at what might be possible in the future. And they always do so on the basis of concrete research and current findings. Together, we open up spaces for thinking that inspire courage—for the Bochum of tomorrow and a future worth living.
Every month: new question, new guest
For the second time in a row, UniverCity Bochum e.V., vhs Bochum, and the city library are inviting the public to attend the “Wissensrunde” lecture series. Almost every month, people from Bochum’s scientific community are invited to give insights into their research and engage in conversation with the audience. After the 2025 Knowledge Round focused on the topic of security, 2026 will be all about utopia! Admission to all Knowledge Round events is free of charge.
Knowledge Round dates (February – March)
The events begin at 6 p.m. at the Querenburg Municipal Library (Querenburger Höhe 270, 44801 Bochum). Admission to all events is free of charge.
Neighborly utopias—how do we create cohesion online and offline? – wie gestalten wir Zusammenhalt online und offline?
February 19, 2026
with Prof. Dr. Jan Üblacker (Technical University of Würzburg-Schweinsfurt, formerly EBZ Business School)
Regional utopias – how can we use mines in the age of the energy transition?
March 19, 2026
with Dr.des. Julia Haske (The Georg Agricola University of Applied Sciences)
Emotional utopias – how does emotional security strengthen our democracy?
April 16, 2026
with Marie-Luise Hünerbein (Protestant University of Applied Sciences Bochum)
Mobile utopias—how do we design streets for everyone?
May 21, 2026
with Prof. Dr. Iris Mühlenbruch (Bochum University of Applied Sciences)
What is the House of Knowledge?
The House of Knowledge is being built directly opposite Bochum City Hall. It will be the new home of the municipal library, the adult education center, and the services offered by the UniverCity Bochum e.V. knowledge network. The future residents of the House of Knowledge are already working on a joint program. In order to address current topics, UniverCity Bochum e.V., vhs Bochum, and the city library have launched a series of events called Wissensrunde (Knowledge Round).
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