Overview
- Around 1,000 students rallied at Essen’s Willy-Brandt-Platz while hundreds more mobilized in Düsseldorf, Münster, Gummersbach and Eitorf in largely peaceful protests organized by BSV Essen and LSV NRW
- Protesters called for massive investments in school infrastructure, modern equipment and recruitment of qualified teachers to address deteriorating conditions
- Demonstrators rejected the multi-track school system and advocated for inclusive all-day comprehensive schools to promote social equity
- A class-size cap of 15 pupils was urged to improve individual support and reduce stress, alongside criticism of the traditional grading system as overly pressurizing
- Ahead of the protests, many young participants faced racist and abusive comments on social media, a backlash organizers say underscores the urgency of inclusive reforms