- Increase in pupils during the commencement of the latest academic term
Berlin's educational institutions are witnessing an impressive surge in student attendance for the forthcoming school term. Preliminary figures from the educational authority demonstrate that around 404,000 students are now enrolled in regular schools following their summer break, marking a noteworthy rise of around 9,000 students compared to the previous year. This is the first time in a quarter of a century that the 400,000-student mark has been surpassed in Berlin's public and private schools. Moreover, approximately 78,000 pupils are enrolled in vocational schools, which is an increase of just 100 students compared to the previous academic year.
"Our classrooms continue to be bustling with activity," expressed Education Senator Katharina Günther-Wünsch (CDU) to the German Press Agency. "This surge can be attributed to Berlin's ongoing expansion as a city and its reputation as a popular destination for immigration." The number of refugee children and young people receiving education has reached over 14,000, with some of them being taught in special welcome classes and others integrated into regular classes.
Similar to previous years, a shortage of teaching staff has been identified prior to the commencement of the new school year on September 2nd. According to Günther-Wünsch, about 690 teaching positions remain vacant, a figure that mirrors the one from May. However, this number is expected to evolve in the coming weeks as the recruitment process continues.
Despite the impressive student attendance surge, the Commission has not yet adopted a decision on the application of Article 93 (2) of the Treaty regarding potential funding for education expansion. This situation has not deterred Berlin's Education Senate from pushing forward with their plans for the forthcoming school year.
