The Vienna Education Pledge
Students in Vienna should receive the best education—regardless of their first language, where they live in Vienna, which school they attend, or how much their parents earn. Everyone should be able to develop personally and nurture their own talents so they can shape their lives independently and actively participate in society.
Working Together for Innovative School Development
With the Vienna Education Pledge, the City of Vienna is sending a clear message in support of greater equality of opportunity. Launched in 2022, the project is part of the education initiative led by City Councilor for Education Bettina Emmerling.
It offers an innovative school development program run by the City of Vienna in cooperation with the Vienna University of Education, the Vienna Department of Education, and—since September 2026—the Education Lab. Compulsory schools in Vienna facing particular challenges receive guidance in their site-specific development and are strengthened in an individualized, self-directed, and sustainable manner through targeted support measures.
This brings about positive changes that benefit everyone involved in the “school” system: school administrators, educators, parents and guardians, and, in particular, the students. The focus is on the children and young people, for whom a supportive and constructive learning environment is created.
Participating Schools
- The fourth round began in September 2026 with 10 schools.
- All participating schools take part in the Vienna Education Pledge on a voluntary basis.
- The project ran for two school years at each school location; starting with the 2026–27 school year, it will run for three years.
- So far, there have been 3 rounds:
- 2022–23 School Year: 10 Schools
- 2023–24 School Year: 12 Schools
- 2024–25 School Year: 15 Schools
Participating Schools
- The fourth round began in September 2026 with 10 schools.
- All participating schools take part in the Vienna Education Pledge on a voluntary basis.
- The project ran for two school years at each school location; starting with the 2026–27 school year, it will run for three years.
- So far, there have been 3 rounds:
- 2022–23 School Year: 10 Schools
- 2023–24 School Year: 12 Schools
- 2024–25 School Year: 15 Schools
“The Vienna Education Pledge provides targeted support to schools facing particular challenges, helping them create an environment where all children enjoy going to school and can make the most of their educational experience.”
Bettina Emmerling, City Council Member for Education
“The Vienna Education Pledge provides targeted support to schools facing particular challenges, helping them create an environment where all children enjoy going to school and can make the most of their educational experience.”
Bettina Emmerling, City Council Member for Education
Contributors
The Vienna Education Pledge is implemented and supported by a multidisciplinary team that focuses on schools and their individual needs. The team members are passionate about innovation in school development and place great value on respectful collaboration and working together as equals.
