Bafög remains untouched: Federal Education Minister Stark-Watzinger rejects criticism of the 2024 federal budget. The Bafög will not be reduced, only the expected expenses will be adjusted.
Federal Education Minister Bettina Stark-Watzinger countered the impression that the 2024 federal budget would cut student loans. “Bafög benefits are by no means reduced,” said the FDP politician to the German Press Agency. “It is a statutory benefit that will be granted in any case. Each individual entitled person will receive his or her benefits in full.”
Representatives of the student body, student unions and the opposition had criticized the traffic light because of the budget of the Ministry of Education and Research. The umbrella organization of student representatives (fzs) said, for example: “It is grotesque to arrange for a reduction in student loans, even though the required rates are being negotiated before the Federal Constitutional Court.” Left-wing politician Nicole Gohlke said: “Almost 40 percent of students are at risk of poverty. In such a situation, cutting student loans of all things is fatal.”
In the federal budget for the coming year, fewer funds are earmarked for student loans – almost 1.4 billion euros for students after 1.8 billion this year. Initially, however, this only means that these expenses are calculated for the Bafög, depending on how many people apply for and receive the benefit. Nothing changes in terms of eligibility and the amount of student loans.
Source: Stern
I have been working in the news industry for over 6 years, first as a reporter and now as an editor. I have covered politics extensively, and my work has appeared in major newspapers and online news outlets around the world. In addition to my writing, I also contribute regularly to 24 Hours World.
