Prime Minister Michael Kretschmer wished the new rector every success in his new role: “Saxony is a state of research. Our five universities of applied sciences build bridges between industry and science every day – an essential link for creating competitive advantages with new and smart ideas and making Saxony fit for the future. HTW Dresden plays a key role in this and enjoys an excellent reputation. I am delighted that Professor Gestring has always remained closely connected to HTW Dresden and wish him every success in his new role as rector.”

Minister of Science Sebastian Gemkow highlighted the importance of the university in the region: “With its practice-oriented approach to research and teaching, HTW Dresden is of enormous importance for the training of skilled workers in the region. Professor Gestring is taking over a well-run institution and I am convinced that he will continue to develop the university successfully. An important part of this work will be to maintain and expand cooperation with companies, other research institutions, and social actors. The Ministry of Science will support the university in this endeavor. I wish Professor Gestring much strength, a steady hand in leadership, and much joy and fulfillment in his role as rector.”

Minister of Science Sebastian Gemkow emphasized the importance of the university in the region: “With its practical focus in research and teaching, HTW Dresden is hugely important for training skilled workers for the region. Professor Gestring is taking over a well-run institution and I am confident that he will continue to develop the university successfully. An important part of this work will be to maintain and expand cooperation with companies, other research institutions, and social actors. The Ministry of Science will support the university in this endeavor. I wish Professor Gestring much strength, a steady hand in leadership, and much joy and fulfillment in his role as rector.”

Mayor Dirk Hilbert emphasized the practical orientation of HTW Dresden and praised its central role in the city's economic development: “HTW Dresden is a university that works closely with medium-sized companies and prepares students intensively for everyday working life. In this way, it contributes to Dresden's economic development and has a decisive influence on the innovative strength of our region. It is a lively place of research, transfer, and creativity. I am convinced that Prof. Gestring, who has been teaching at the university for many years, will make a valuable contribution to the further development of HTW Dresden with his commitment and expertise. I wish him all the best and every success in his responsible work as rector.”

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Jens Morgenstern, member of the Senate of HTW Dresden, pointed out the many challenges facing the university, such as increasing bureaucracy, dealing with AI, IT security, course capacity, and staffing and material resources: “We assure the rector of the support of the Senate and all members of the university in solving all the tasks ahead and wish him good health and strength for the successful performance of his duties.”

Wolfgang Macheleidt, Chairman of the Staff Council at HTW Dresden, emphasized how important it is for the Staff Council and university management to work together as partners: “Let's work together on the future of our university, where equality, fairness, transparency, and co-determination are not just buzzwords, but a reality. We look forward to the impetus you will provide, Prof. Gestring, and hope for a productive and trusting collaboration and lively exchange.”

Lisa Kästner, member of the Student Council at HTW Dresden, would like to see open and trusting dialogue between students and university management: “Our university can only reach its full potential if students are seen not only as learners but also as active contributors. We want a dialogue that is characterized by mutual respect and the desire to find solutions together. With your inauguration as rector today, we are losing a valued teacher, but we are gaining a rector who understands the concerns of students.”