Working together for more educational opportunities

From August 2011 to August 2014, the nationwide ‘Ideas for the Education Republic’ competition recognised projects and initiatives that promote equal educational opportunities for children and young adults. The ‘education ideas’ were selected by a panel of experts, and recognised with prizes at an awards ceremony. The competition was held under the patronage of Germany's Federal Minister of Education and Research Johanna Wanka.

The aim of the ‘Ideas for the Education Republic’ competition was to increase the visibility of the work done by the many people in Germany who, through great dedication, create added educational opportunities for children and young adults. The competition sought to recognise outstanding commitment in the field of education, as well as to highlight exemplary projects and encourage people to emulate them. The competition was funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research, in co-operation with the Vodafone Foundation, Germany.

Under the motto of ‘Working together for more education opportunities’, we looked for initiatives, institutions and associations that network with one another – because equal educational opportunity is promoted wherever parents, teachers, youth workers and social workers come together. Children and young adults have better opportunities for education when schools, churches, associations and local business join forces for a common cause.