Germany's Minister for Education and Research, Bettina Stark-Watzinger, faces scrutiny over placing State Secretary Sabine Döring on indefinite leave.

The controversy centers around funding cuts based on political criteria, particularly affecting academics supporting peaceful protests at Berlin universities.

Calls for Stark-Watzinger's resignation have emerged, but she defends her stance, underscoring the importance of academic freedom and scientific criteria in funding decisions.

The National Education Report outlines systemic challenges like students leaving school without diplomas and teacher shortages.

Despite increased education spending, the share of education expenditures in GDP has only slightly risen since 2012.

Stark-Watzinger denies issuing instructions for funding consequences and maintains she has no reason to resign.