Record-low number of BAföG beneficiaries since 1991 - Record-low Bafög recipients since 1991 revealed
In 2021, the number of BAföG recipients in Saxony-Anhalt dropped to its lowest level since 1991. According to the State Statistical Office of Saxony-Anhalt, the decrease was five percent compared to the previous year, amounting to 17,828 recipients.
The decline was observed in both students and school pupils, with the decrease in the number of students being slightly more pronounced. Around two-thirds of the BAföG recipients in Saxony-Anhalt were students, while about one-third were school pupils.
This significant drop is primarily due to demographic changes and structural factors. The steady decrease in the number of young people in Saxony-Anhalt, owing to lower birth rates and outmigration, has led to fewer students eligible for BAföG. Additionally, many young people from the region migrate to other federal states for education and employment opportunities, further reducing the local number of BAföG recipients.
Changes in education pathways may also play a role. More students are pursuing alternatives to traditional university studies or professional training that do not qualify for BAföG support. Economic and policy factors, such as adjustments in BAföG eligibility rules, the increasing proportion of students from financially stable families, or other socio-economic factors, might have influenced the drop in recipients.
The decline in BAföG recipients in Saxony-Anhalt is part of a nationwide trend. According to the Federal Statistical Office, there was a four percent decrease in BAföG recipients nationwide last year, marking the fourth consecutive year of decline.
The average monthly BAföG grant in Saxony-Anhalt was 625 euros, a decrease of eight euros compared to the previous year. Interestingly, students in Saxony-Anhalt received an average of 165 euros more BAföG per month compared to school pupils.
This notable decrease in the number of individuals receiving educational financial aid is a concern for those advocating for equal opportunities in education. The State Statistical Office and the Federal Statistical Office continue to monitor these trends closely.
- To address the downtrend in BAföG recipients, policymakers might consider implementing initiatives such as community policies that promote education and self-development, including vocational training, to attract and support more young people in Saxony-Anhalt.
- Given the decrease in the number of BAföG recipients and the importance of education and finance, it's crucial for those supporting equal opportunities to investigate the impact of adjustments in eligibility rules, financial stability of families, and other socio-economic factors on vocational training opportunities and financial aid distribution.
