Overview
- Markus Söder said he wants the Bavarian, German and European hymns played or sung at graduation events as soon as the end of this school year.
- CSU parliamentary leader Klaus Holetschek argued the requirement could be enacted without changing law through a letter from the education ministry.
- Education Minister Anna Stolz signaled caution and plans consultations with teacher associations on implementation.
- Bavarian schools currently decide on their own whether to include the Bavarian or German hymn at certificate ceremonies.
- Teacher groups and commentators warn the mandate diverts attention from staffing shortages and deteriorating schools, and note many students do not know the hymns.