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Saxon SPD leaders project confidence, push for education reform
🇩🇪 Germany /Elections & Politics

Saxon SPD leaders project confidence, push for education reform

From Die Zeit · () German

Translated from German, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • The Saxon SPD party congress in Dresden conveyed a message of optimism despite current dissatisfaction within the state.
  • Party leader Kathrin Michel urged confidence in Germany's future, emphasizing its strengths in business, research, and democracy.
  • Co-leader Henning Homann focused on reforming Saxony, particularly in education, advocating for strengthening schools despite declining student numbers.

The Saxon branch of Germany's Social Democratic Party (SPD) projected confidence and optimism at its state party congress in Dresden, even while acknowledging existing public dissatisfaction. Party leader Kathrin Michel called for a self-assured outlook on Germany's future, countering any notion that the country's best years are behind it.

Germany has every reason to look to the future with confidence.

— Kathrin MichelSPD leader Kathrin Michel expressed optimism about Germany's future during the state party congress.

"The opposite is true. It is precisely now that it is decided whether we bury our heads in the sand or shape the future," Michel stated. She recognized that trust in politics is earned, not given, and that citizens are keenly aware of economic complexities, international crises, and personal concerns like job security and energy costs. Michel stressed that Germany possesses strong companies, dedicated employees, robust research, and a solid democracy, highlighting people's readiness to take responsibility.

The opposite is true. It is precisely now that it is decided whether we bury our heads in the sand or shape the future.

— Kathrin MichelMichel countered pessimism about Germany's prospects, emphasizing the need for proactive engagement.

Co-leader Henning Homann addressed the specific situation in Saxony, vowing to put the state on a "reform course." He placed a significant emphasis on education policy, arguing that the issue of " Unterrichtsausfall" (lesson cancellations) will soon be overshadowed by the question of school infrastructure. Homann described schools as more than just educational institutions, but as vital centers for community life.

Politics cannot demand trust. Politics must earn trust.

— Kathrin MichelMichel acknowledged the public's skepticism and the need for political action to build confidence.

The congress passed a resolution on education policy, aiming to secure schools in Saxony long-term. The resolution argues that declining student numbers should not lead to budget cuts but rather to strengthening schools, shortening commutes, and ensuring educational quality. The SPD's goal is to maintain schools and retain teaching staff by providing reliable resources and advocating for amendments to the school law.

Germany is a land of opportunities.

— Kathrin MichelMichel described Germany's potential and resources during her address.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Die Zeit in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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