New popular initiative for G9 for all classes failed - Baden-Württemberg rejects push for nine-year high school option
A citizens’ initiative in Baden-Württemberg has fallen short in its push for a nine-year Abitur (G9) option alongside the current eight-year fast-track system (G8). The campaign, which sought to give older high school students a choice between the two models, failed to gather enough support to move forward. The initiative required 40,000 signatures to force a public vote but collected only around 27,000. Earlier, the group had also proposed a referendum, but the Interior Ministry blocked it on constitutional grounds. Opposition came from high school teachers’ associations and the state parents’ council. Despite the setback, organisers have pledged to remain active in shaping education policy. Meanwhile, the state government has its own plans for G9. Starting in the 2025/26 school year, it will introduce the nine-year model—but only for fifth and sixth graders. Older students will not have the option to switch. The failed initiative leaves older pupils without a G9 alternative for now. The government’s phased approach will limit the change to younger year groups. Campaigners say they will keep pressing for broader reforms in the future.
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