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Pupils in Berlin should have more opportunities to get to know the Bundestag and the state parliament, for example.
Schools should also be encouraged to visit local political institutions such as district offices or district assemblies. The black-red Senate is in favour of this. Young people could gain a deeper understanding of how democracy works through direct contact with political processes and decision-makers, Senator for Education Katharina Günther-Wünsch (CDU) announced on Tuesday.
"Given the current situation, in which many people across Germany are taking to the streets in favour of democracy, it is particularly important that our pupils learn to understand and appreciate these values." The education administration will encourage and support schools to utilise such opportunities. Günther-Wünsch had previously presented her report on strengthening pupils' awareness of democracy to the Senate. "Pupils' participation in visits to democratic institutions offers significant added value for their education and their understanding of democratic processes and democratic values such as freedom, justice and tolerance," said the Senator for Education.