Styria launches parliament-based democracy course for teachers

Teachers in Styria will learn about democracy education directly inside the state parliament under a new course starting in the 2026-27 winter semester, ORF reports.

The two-semester, part-time programme was developed by Styria University of Teacher Education in cooperation with the Styrian state parliament. It is aimed in particular at teachers of all subjects in the lower grades of academic secondary schools and in middle schools.

Half of the classes will take place at the Graz Landhaus, the seat of the state parliament. Teachers will learn about the parliament’s roles, structures and procedures, as well as lawmaking and political decision-making. The programme will also include visits to parliamentary sessions and discussions with elected representatives and experts from politics and public administration.

The course covers the foundations of democracy education and how to support democratic learning, discussion and participation in everyday school life. Parliament President Gerald Deutschmann said practical experience could help teachers bring democracy to life in schools. University rector Beatrix Karl said teachers should encourage pupils to express their views, respect other perspectives and work together on solutions.