German teacher receives 1 million euros in salary during 17-year sick leave

A female teacher in Duisburg, North Rhine-Westphalia, has reportedly received approximately 1 million euros (roughly 29.6 billion VND) in salary while on long-term sick leave for nearly 17 years.

The teacher, who began working at a vocational school in Wesel in 2003, filed for sick leave due to psychological issues in August 2009 and never returned to the classroom. Despite her absence, she continued to receive monthly payments ranging from 5,051 to 6,174 euros by submitting medical certificates to extend her leave. Authorities failed to mandate medical examinations by independent doctors during this period.

Investigations have raised further controversy, as evidence suggests the teacher may have been practicing as an unlicensed healer (Heilpraktikerin) during her period of incapacity. In 2012, she even received a startup award for a skincare product. Following the discovery of the situation in 2024, the teacher has taken legal action after being requested to retire.