German awards recognize excellence in schools and publishing

Germany is hosting two major award ceremonies recognizing excellence in education and publishing.

The 20th German School Award (Deutscher Schulpreis), organized by the Robert Bosch Stiftung and the Heidehof Stiftung, has selected 15 finalists from across Germany and the network of German schools abroad. The award ceremony is scheduled for September 29, 2026, in Berlin, with ARD serving as a media partner to promote media literacy. A jury of approximately 50 experts from educational science, school practice, and administration selected the finalists.

In the publishing sector, Minister of State for Culture and Media Wolfram Weimer announced the 85 winners of the 2026 German Publishing Award (Deutscher Verlagspreis). Out of 279 applicants, 79 publishers will receive a seal of quality and 18,000 euros each, while three top prizes of 50,000 euros will be awarded. This year introduces a new innovation prize alongside the existing sustainability prize. The official ceremony will take place on October 9, 2026, during the Frankfurt Book Fair.