Free school meals: Thuringian BSW calls for quick entry!

Free school meals: Thuringian BSW calls for quick entry!

The Thuringian BSW parliamentary group recently called for the introduction of free school meals, as set out in the coalition agreement between the Blackberry Coalition. The education politician Dirk Hoffmeister emphasizes that this project is urgently needed to ensure a healthy diet for the students. CDU parliamentary group leader Andreas Bühl, on the other hand, emphasizes that there is financial scope for implementation, but priorities must be set in order to release the necessary funds, reports stern.de.

The coalition agreement stipulates that healthy, warm and free lunches should be gradually introduced in schools and kindergartens. The planned state subsidy should only be available from August 1, 2027. Hoffmeister explains that due to the current budget situation, a gradual introduction is necessary. The possibility of a social staggering of free school meals is also being considered.

Financial aspects and expenses

In the discussion about free school meals, it is also pointed out that the project is expected to cost hundreds of millions. Education Minister Christian Tischner (CDU) has announced a state subsidy, which, as already mentioned, will only take effect in two years. The need to create suitable spaces in schools is also emphasized.

In Thuringia, estimates suggest that around 250,000 students and 90,000 kindergarten children could benefit from state funding. To further discuss the issues surrounding school meals, an educational conference will be held this year, which will bring together school authorities, trade unions and student and parent representatives in order to work constructively on solutions such as: vdskc.de reported.