A surge in global interest in learning German is being observed, particularly in nations viewing Germany as a desirable destination for work and higher education. This trend, highlighted in a recent analysis presented Monday at the International German Teachers’ Conference in Lübeck, stems from collaborative efforts between the Federal Foreign Office and organizations like the Goethe-Institut and the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD).
The analysis, conducted every five years, assesses the global landscape of German language learning to inform strategies for its promotion. The latest findings reveal a discernible increase in demand for German language courses within adult education programs, coinciding with the implementation of Germany’s Skilled Immigration Act in 2023.
Growth in German language learning is most prominent in countries like Egypt, India, Kenya and Colombia, where Germany’s attractiveness as a place to work, train, or study is already well-established. Furthermore, in nations experiencing demographic pressures on local labor markets – including Cameroon, Morocco, Nepal and Uzbekistan – learning German is increasingly linked to professional mobility and access to future opportunities within Germany.
However, the growing demand is presenting a significant challenge: a shortage of qualified German language instructors. Addressing this, officials acknowledged the need for an expanded teaching workforce to meet current needs. A joint initiative, involving the Federal Foreign Office and partner organizations, has been launched to develop an international teaching strategy designed to address this critical gap.