Vienna to Receive Over 500 New Positions for German Language Support

Vienna is set to benefit significantly from a substantial initiative aimed at enhancing German language education. The educational reforms introduced will result in an increase in positions dedicated to supporting students who require additional language assistance, effectively doubling the current count from 231 to 521.

The funding allocated for this initiative will rise to EUR42.5 million annually, reflecting an increase of EUR23.7 million. This funding aims to address the pressing need for improved language education and ensure equal opportunities for students across the city.

Officials have noted that Vienna is particularly impacted, with over 40% of students in Austria who require additional language support attending schools in the capital. Nearly half of all elementary school children in Vienna commence their education with a need for language assistance, and more than half of the student population communicates in a language other than German in their daily lives.

Previously, funding from the federal government was capped, despite a growing demand for language support services. The recent changes will eliminate these caps, allowing approximately 40% of the newly available positions to be allocated to Vienna. Additionally, funds previously designated as temporary in response to the Ukraine crisis will now be secured on a permanent basis.

The Minister of Education has consistently advocated for increased funding for language support during his tenure as the city's education representative, a call that largely went unanswered under previous administrations. This new initiative by the NEOS party marks a significant political commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and facilitating integration within schools.

With the revised allocation of resources based on actual needs, every school in Vienna will receive targeted support moving forward. The removal of previous funding limits paves the way for increased staffing, enhanced educational programs, and genuine integration efforts.