Employer associations are pressing the federal government to consistently implement the educational data plans it has announced. According to a position paper released by the Federation of German Employers’ Associations (BDA), which the Handelsblatt reported on, it is argued that Germany can significantly improve the quality and outcomes of its educational system if educational data is systematically utilized. The ultimate goal is to ensure fundamental competencies for all young people, reduce the number of students who struggle academically, and boost the achievements of superior students.
In their coalition agreement, the Union and the SPD had committed to supporting the creation of a nationwide student ID and an educational progression register. However, nothing has happened yet. When consulted, the Federal Minister of Education, Karin Prien (CDU), stated that the federal government is willing to support the states concerning the student ID topic. This support could come through exchange formats or research funding. However, she added that support options are currently still under review, clarifying that the federal government lacks the competency to introduce a student ID or set specific purposes for it; that responsibility rests with the states under school law.
However, employer president Rainer Dulger sharply criticized this inaction. Dulger told the Handelsblatt, “When the future of our children is at stake, we cannot keep stumbling in the fog any longer.” He asserted that it is essential to know where children fall behind, which forms of support are genuinely effective, and what becomes of young people who finish school without a qualification.
A student ID could help trace educational paths, detect learning gaps early, and provide more targeted support for young people. Dulger demanded that “both the federal and state governments must act.” He concluded by saying that, especially after the poor PISA results, Germany cannot afford to lose sight of young people during their educational journey.
