In July 2016, the government passed a law mandating education until the age of 18. This requirement applies to students who completed their compulsory schooling in the school year 2016/17. A "phase of orientation" lasting a maximum of four months is tolerated – meaning that all young people who completed compulsory schooling in 2016/17 must begin education or training by November 2017. 

Study Objectives

The aim of this social science study is, on one hand, to assess the current situation at the levels of parents and students, as well as at the level of Social Work, institutions, organizations, and schools. On the other hand, it seeks to highlight the phases of the law’s implementation, including potential risks, opportunities, and new developments. 
Solutions and support strategies from the field of Social Work will be developed to identify potentially new or expanded areas of action.

Another opportunity presented by this project is the chance to evaluate the implementation of a law in real time. The findings of this research could provide new insights and solutions for institutions, organizations, policymakers, and Social Work.

For university students, this research offers the opportunity to explore the implementation of a law – including all its risks, chances, and possibilities – from various perspectives (adolescents, parents, teachers, institutions, etc.).