Readers comment on state of German education

The following comments reflect the views of DW-WORLD.DE readers. Not all reader comments have been published. DW-WORLD.DE reserves the right to edit for length and appropriateness of content.

New report reveals shocking state of German education system

Ha! You think things are bad in Germany? Go to the US and see what lack of education really looks like. The world's richest country should be the one with the best of everything, including standards of living and education, to name just two items - but sad to say, it is not! -- Hal, US

The problem experienced with the German school system is very simple. German society focuses on the slow but steady development and process of individuals along traditional skills and contributions to society. This is reflected in how children progress in development and schooling. Problems arise when you suddenly have a large number of non-Germans to integrate along with their children who may or may not have been born in Germany. Multicultural societies are dysfunctional. All multicultural societies create is the permanent separation of visible immigrants or newcomers from the greater society. The best approach is integration. It may take one or two generations to achieve but it is the most natural, honest and wisest approach. -- Gerhard, Canada

HECS (Higher Education Contribution Scheme) fees for university students are outrageous in Australia and suck the income of those graduates beginning careers after university. Most full-time university students live on the poverty line or below. TAFE (Technical and Further Education) students do not fare much better with the fee structure for their courses, especially at diploma or higher level. Full time TAFE students suffer similarly to university students with income. Many university and TAFE students, when they are young people, rely on family for help whether it is accommodation or financial support. The federal and state governments in Australia could do more to help these people with their life while studying. -- Stuart, Australia

I thought you were discussing Canada on your website in education. The future belongs to countries that can work together. -- Malcolm, Canada

I attended school in Germany up to the 10th grade. I was enrolled in Realschule and would have finished school that year if I had stayed in Germany. After moving to Canada I continued to the 12th grade and then received a university degree. I would not have been able to achieve that had I stayed in Germany. Fourth grade is much too early to decide if a student has what it takes to attend university. They should all be encouraged to do their best. I'm not saying our system in Canada is great, but at least we are all given the chance to prove ourselves. -- Silvia, Canada

Compiled by Stuart Tiffen
Editor: Martin Kuebler