The Free State of Bavaria pursues this aim with a highly differentiated system of education in which courses within the general-education and vocational sectors have equal standing, whether as an entitlement to continuing education or as a qualification for working life. In this way, equality and fairness of opportunity are fostered independent of sex, social background and place of residence. These aims are clearly discernible in the major structures described and facts contained here. The intention is to provide an overview of Bavarian schooling for all those involved in the fundamental questions of education. A brief look at Higher Education completes the picture.
European unity demands transparency and reliable information with regard to education systems.
The realisation that, in view of the diversity of European cultures, the responsibility for education must remain a regional one, underlines this mutual need for information. Educational cooperation beyond the borders of the European Community, with the countries of the former eastern bloc as well as with the developing countries, also demands a reliable portrayal of the education systems involved. Only then is it possible to cooperate and solve the existing problems by taking into consideration the different cultural and societal conditions. We hope these pages may contribute towards promoting education and culture as a counterweight to worldwide conflict and as a long-term hope for development that is worthy of mankind.