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Student budget: Learn democracy with 1,500 euros for every school!
The Student Budget project to promote democratic participation in schools will start in mid-2026. Applications until November 30, 2025.
Student budget: Learn democracy with 1,500 euros for every school!
The District Councilor for Schools and Sports, Benjamin Fritz, has announced the introduction of the “Student Budget” project in the schools of the Berlin district of Mitte. In 2026, public schools will have the opportunity to take part in this innovative program, which aims to convey democratic participation to students. This project follows the growing initiative to strengthen participation in schools, which not only contributes to the promotion of democratic values, but also strengthens students' responsibility for their surroundings.
Each participating school will receive a budget of 1,500 euros, which the students can decide democratically. The targeted measures aim to promote the involvement of students in decision-making about resources and to enable them to play an active role in shaping their school environment. Educational support is provided by the Youth Participation Service Agency, which has been working in this area since 2015 and provides support in the form of advice, materials and workshops. The project is expected to run for three years.
Important information about the project
The invitation to participate is addressed to all district-run public schools, including primary schools, high schools and schools with a special education focus. The project has significant dates to note:
- Bewerbungsschluss: 30. November 2025
- Rückmeldung zur Teilnahme: Ende Januar 2026
- Projektumsetzung: Februar bis November 2026
Detailed information and application documents are available on the project website. Interested schools can contact the project manager, Mareike Schmidt, directly at the email address berlin@schuelerinnen-finanz.de or call 0159 067 224 95. The press office of the Mitte district office is available for press inquiries presse@ba-mitte.berlin.de available.
Importance of participation in schools
The “Student Budget” project is embedded in a comprehensive strategy to promote democracy and participation in educational institutions. Educational institutions are not only places of learning, but also social spaces in which democracy can be actively practiced. By participating in such projects, students not only learn to take responsibility, but also to contribute their voice in a structured process.
The early-stage participation exercises are provided by the Youth Participation Service and include all age groups and school types, not only in Berlin, but also in Brandenburg. By involving all students, including those who are less active, in this process, the aim is to help create an inclusive and democratic school climate in which each individual can make a contribution. Practical experience in democratic decision-making promotes students' self-efficacy and engagement in their school environment.
Overall, it shows that projects such as the student budget are of great importance for the development of a strong, democratic school culture and represent an important step towards active participation in the design of schools. This program initiative not only offers financial resources, but also the opportunity to learn and actively live democratic processes.