Burgenland schools add democracy and AI to curriculum

Burgenland will begin its new school year on September 7 without any planned school closures or teacher shortages, ORF reported. Around 33,000 children and young people will return to school, including 2,850 first-time pupils.

The number of pupils is expected to remain stable, according to the education directorate. However, the relocation of the vocational school from Oberwart to Pinkafeld is scheduled to take place during the school year, with the move planned for January, Education Director Alfred Lehner said on Monday.

“We will then prepare the Polytechnic School in Oberwart for a move in the 2027-28 school year,” Lehner said.

Compulsory schools will place greater emphasis on democracy education, sustainability and artificial intelligence. Education Minister Daniela Winkler said these topics would increasingly be incorporated into lessons.

Authorities also plan to further strengthen cooperation and the transition from kindergartens to primary schools.