Following the recent poor performance of German students in the latest Pisa study, education minister Karin Prien (CDU) announced plans to enhance the country’s education monitoring system. Speaking to the dts Nachrichtenagentur on Tuesday, she stated that the current monitoring framework in Germany is “not sufficiently meeting its purpose.” She noted that discussions in Berlin often center around the broader concept of “Pisa Germany,” but it is currently unclear what this means practically for specific states like Bavaria or North Rhine-Westphalia. While she observed that progress towards necessary steps has been made in some states, others are trailing, which necessitates a much more granular examination. A key component of this improved monitoring must also be tracking the various stages of data-based teaching development across all grade levels.
Turning to financial matters, Prien commented on the parallel budget discussions in the Bundestag, acknowledging that the “massively tight” financial situation affecting the federal government, states, and municipalities cannot be dismissed. Nevertheless, she confirmed that her budget proposal includes a strong increase in funding for education. Despite facing political resistance, she managed to secure funding for the Digital Pact, utilizing special funds. Furthermore, the law regarding the quality development and early start opportunities in childcare (Kita) has been advanced, set to receive an additional €1.5 billion in the coming year. The minister concluded by adding that additional funds have been made available to work jointly with the states, enabling the roadmap process to be supported by concrete actions.
