On January 9, the well-attended auditorium hosted the school-wide final of “Jugend debattiert” for grades 9 and 10. The topic of this year's debate was the question “Should a general compulsory service (civilian or military) be introduced for young people after they complete their school education?”
Emma (9b) and Emilian (9a) argued in favor, while Henriette (10a) and Ostertal (10c) argued against. Both sides passionately defended their positions and engaged in a predominantly factual exchange of arguments: On the one hand, the focus was on Germany's necessary defense capabilities and the need for personnel in both the armed forces and the care sector (pro), while on the other hand, the focus was on the self-determination of young people's life paths in general and the better use of financial resources for recruiting and training professional nursing staff and strengthening voluntary
service (con).
The jury, consisting of three Upper Secondary students, evaluated the speeches of the four participants, among other things, according to the validity of their arguments and their response to statements made by the opposing side: Henriette (10a) took a convincing first place, followed by two second places, taken by Rasmus (10c) and Emilian (9a), and a third place, taken by Emma (9b). Henriette, Rasmus, and Emilian will therefore represent our school at the regional competition on February 10, 2026, with Rasmus and Emilian deciding between themselves who will participate.
Congratulations to all participants and good luck in the next round!
L.T., January 9, 2026