In an interview on krone.tv, Minister of Education Martin Polaschek (ÖVP) hopes that the reform of teacher training, which has just been approved by the Council of Ministers, will be a great incentive to tackle the teacher shortage: “We have a strong wave of retirements in recent years. And we have seen that a number of people now only work part-time and no longer want to teach full-time.”
“All this has meant that the need for teachers has become greater than expected. But the numbers will level off again in the coming years.”
The practical relevance should also be increased through teacher education reform. However, two aspects are being worked on when replacing teachers. Polaschek: “We also use a lateral entry model to bring people to the schools who have previously had different life and professional experiences. There is now a strict selection process that not everyone gets through. But anyone who goes through the selection system can then apply for a job at the school. We are extremely interested in this system.”
“Different handling required”
There is also a strong need for action on violence in schools, as crimes are committed by younger and younger people. Polaschek: “We are facing a big challenge here. Chancellor Nehammer rightly proposed lowering the age of criminal responsibility. We need a different approach here to adequately tackle young offenders. That doesn’t mean they all go to jail straight away. But it is clear that we must clearly stand on the side of the victims and show our colors here.” Experts must decide on the appropriate age of criminal responsibility. Polaschek: “One thing is clear: the current age (14, note) can no longer be the case. We simply need to do more to protect young women in particular.”
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
