Saarland Sets Uniform Media Loan Fees and Extends FREI DAY School Innovation

The Saarland Ministry of Education and Culture approved a statewide media loan system (LSMS) at the school conference on 21 April 2026. All schools will charge a uniform fee of €160 per pupil for the academic year, of which €130 covers educational media and €30 covers digital writing, calculation and drawing materials. The fee applies regardless of location, and provisions are included for financial relief for families in need.

The state also continues the "FREI DAY Region Saarland" school development project. Participating schools receive ongoing advice and support to embed the FREI DAY learning format, which gives students weekly opportunities to pursue self‑chosen projects on future‑oriented topics. Education Minister Christine Streichert‑Clivot said the programme “shows what school can achieve when young people have space for their own ideas.” The initiative began with 21 pilot schools in 2023 and added ten more in 2025, receiving positive feedback while noting that each school starts from a different point and requires tailored support.