The Didacta Education Fair 2025, taking place from February 11 to February 15, is Europe's largest educational event, drawing tens of thousands of visitors to Messe Stuttgart. The fair emphasizes the theme "Democracy Needs Education – Education Needs Democracy," addressing contemporary challenges and opportunities within the educational sector. This year, the significance of digitalization and artificial intelligence (AI) will be highlighted, fostering discussions on how these technological advancements can impact teaching and learning.
Among the exhibitors, heinekingmedia stands out as one of the leaders in the field of digital signage and collaboration solutions for educational institutions. The company will showcase its extensive product portfolio at stand H71 and at partner mobile.schule's stand B60. Notably, the new C10 line of digital boards will be featured, equipped with the EDLA-certified Android 13 operating system, ensuring high connectivity and compatibility with Windows systems. The digital board is complemented by various practical tools, including features for displaying information and designing screen content, enhancing communication within schools.
While the fair is celebrated for its focus on educational innovation, it has also sparked controversy this year due to the participation of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. This presence has ignited protests from various organizations, including Christian aid groups and the Central Council of Jews, who have urged the event organizers to reassess their exhibitor policies. They argue, as outlined in their joint statements, stating, "Political institutions observed by the domestic intelligence service as potentially extremist should not find representation at an educational fair." Despite the backlash, the Stuttgart Fair authorities maintain their stance, citing neutrality obligations for all exhibitors and the legitimate participation of political parties, including the CDU, Greens, and AfD.
Theresa Schopper, the cultural minister of Baden-Württemberg representing the Green Party, commented on the matter, stating, "Events like fairs should not be free from political discourse." This reflects the broader societal tension between education and politics, highlighting the need for democratic education even amid challenges posed by extreme viewpoints.
Alongside conversations surrounding political participation, the fair will feature numerous workshops and discussions on how new technologies, particularly AI, can shape educational practices. Topics will range from effectively integrating AI tools in classrooms to fostering media literacy among students. Steffen Brill, co-founder of the education startup Eduhu, emphasized the value of these tools: "We focus on training teachers to integrate AI meaningfully, addressing areas where technology offers real benefits and where support is still needed. This hands-on approach is aligned with our mission to make educational practice relevant and impactful."
The interdisciplinary nature of the Didacta Fair aims to demonstrate the integral relationship between educational delivery and democratic principles. Through panels led by notable figures, such as Florence Brokowski-Shekete and other leaders from various fields, the attendees will experience firsthand how education is both influenced by and can strengthen societal values.
Despite critics of the AfD's participation at the fair, including vocal opposition from educational professionals, the dialogue about democracy and education continues to be pivotal. Many educators believe it is necessary to actively engage students with different perspectives to cultivate informed citizens capable of participating meaningfully in democratic processes.
Looking forward, the Didacta Fair promises to be not just about showcasing products but will also focus on the substantive discussions surrounding the future of education, the role of digital tools, and how best to prepare future generations for the realities they will face. This inclusive approach sets the educational fair apart as more than just another exposition; it seeks to be at the forefront of dialogue concerning the development of education policies and practices relevant today.
For those attending the fair, opportunities for interaction and exchange of ideas abound as the emphasis on innovative and informed practices strives to converge on solutions for the pressing challenges faced by today's educational institutions.
The Didacta Education Fair exemplifies the pivotal role of education not only as a tool for individual advancement but also as the bedrock of democracy itself. With numerous stakeholders vying for influence and legitimacy, the educational community’s response to these challenges will be closely watched by educators, politicians, and society at large.