- Prioritization of digital learning remains steadfast in Saarland's educational institutions
Despite uncertain future funding from the national government, digital transformation in schools continues to be a top priority for the Saarland state administration. "Students should leave school capable of functioning independently. To accomplish this, they must also be competent in navigating the digital world," stated Education Minister Christine Streichert-Clivot (SPD) in Saarbrücken.
Over the past several years, approximately 100,000 mobile devices have been obtained for schools in Saarland. "That's a figure that speaks for itself," she noted. Saarland is the federal state that has spearheaded a widespread integration of these devices – starting from the third grade.
Currently, around 53 percent of all educational material is consumed digitally in schools, with variations between school types. Last year, computer science was mandated as a required subject starting from grade 7. In the forthcoming academic year, a standardized digital school management system is slated to be implemented, the Minister announced. This will also enhance communication among educators.
However, this initiative depends on an agreement between the federal states and the national government regarding the renewal of a multibillion-euro funding program for digital school modernization. As of now, there is no clarity regarding the financing of the new Digital Compact, whose initial phase expired in May.
The federal states are reportedly growing increasingly restless, according to Streichert-Clivot, who serves as President of the Conference of State Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs. A special meeting of the KMK was scheduled for September 2 to discuss subsequent measures. The federal states are seeking 1.3 billion euros annually starting in 2025 to further advance digital infrastructure development.
Additional students in Saarland
At the start of the new academic year, an increased number of students have enrolled in Saarland schools compared to the previous year. The student population is projected to swell by around 1.9 percent to approximately 124,600. The increase is markedly high at primary schools, with an additional 1,100 students. Moreover, there are around 500 more students and adolescents registered at comprehensive schools. Streichert-Clivot attributed the swell in enrollment to immigration from conflict and crisis regions.
The state has managed to fill both vacant free and additional positions for teaching staff as a result of the increased demand. An additional 50 language support teacher positions were created specifically for German, complementing the existing 120 teachers in that field.
Expansion of kindergarten places
Despite the ongoing need for places in kindergartens, especially in urban areas, the supply cannot be fully met. Efforts are underway to expand available spaces and enhance professional training for specialized staff. In 2012, there were approximately 29,000 kindergarten places in Saarland, and today that number stands at nearly 38,500. The number of places in the nursery area has grown from around 4,200 to around 7,650. By the beginning of 2027, parental contributions in kindergartens are estimated to be eliminated. The Minister confirms that this remains the objective.
Furthermore, there is a need to expand full-day care offers. Currently, around 65 percent of students benefit from this. From 2026, there will be a legal entitlement to full-day care, starting from the first grade.
Following the summer break, the Startchancen program will officially commence with 55 schools. This is a decade-long school development program that will alter the school landscape. Schools may also identify specific areas for improvement. This could involve constructing additional extensions, although the primary focus will be on outfitting schools to create individual work and learning environments. Saarland will receive around 12 million euros in federal funds annually for this initiative.
The national government's uncertain funding for digital transformation hasn't deterred the Saarland state administration from prioritizing it in schools. Despite this, Education Minister Christine Streichert-Clivot emphasized the importance of students being digitally competent.
In light of the national government's funding uncertainty, securing an agreement between the federal states and the national government for the Digital Compact's renewal is crucial for the ongoing digital transformation in Saarland schools.
