Abitur 2025: A historic farewell at the Gabrieli-Gymnasium in Eichstätt

Abitur 2025: A historic farewell at the Gabrieli-Gymnasium in Eichstätt

The farewell of the last G8 Abitur class took place today at the Gabrieli-Gymnasium (GG) in Eichstätt in a festive atmosphere. The auditorium was well filled as 35 graduates received their long-awaited high school diplomas. This year marks the end of an era, as the Bavarian education system switches to the nine-year high school, which brings with it many changes. Loud Danube Courier The GG was one of fewer than 100 Bavarian high schools that formed a “safety net” for G8 starters at an early stage, which shows how important this school was for the region.

Of the 35 graduates, 32 were GG students who began their training in the school's introductory class. Six external applicants took part in this exhibition, which opened with the solemn ecumenical service in the monastery church of St. Walburg. Under the motto “You put my feet on a wide space,” Deacon Anselm Blumberg and Pastor Christine Venter wish the graduates all the best for the future. The youth choir and the graduation band provided music for this special service, which created a moving atmosphere.

A special vintage

Deputy headmistress Annette Siegert did not miss the opportunity to praise the friendly and optimistic attitude of the year group. Chiara Thoma, from the parents' council, delivered the congratulations in the form of artistically designed puzzle tiles, while Mayor Josef Grienberger encouraged the graduates with a personal speech. The senior school speakers Linus Faber and Ayleen Dinter also thanked the teachers and emphasized the uniqueness of their year.

There was reason to be happy at the certificate presentation, which was carried out by headmaster Christof Neumayr: ten graduates managed to achieve a grade with one before the decimal point. The best of her year, Yara Gross, shone with a dream grade of 1.0. Her colleagues Amara Kerner, Julian Beckmann and Peter Zehetleitner follow her with a grade of 1.2. For outstanding achievements, the best performers were also presented with book vouchers by the parents' council.

The changes in the Bavarian education system

This degree cannot be separated from the comprehensive reforms in the Bavarian education system, such as Wikipedia explained. The last G8 Abitur exams took place in spring 2024, which will be further reinforced by the transition to the nine-year school format. In recent years, many students have suffered under the conditions of the G8 system due to increased pressure to perform, which has resulted in numerous discussions and even demonstrations.

Now that the last G8 high school diploma is being celebrated in Eichstätt, a bright side of the system is also becoming apparent: the graduates can look back on an achievement that they achieved in a challenging time. The festival program was rounded off with musical performances; The graduation band played, among other things, the hit “Life is a Highway” to say goodbye to the class.

A sign for the future? Perhaps! The last G8 high school graduates at Gabrieli-Gymnasium not only have certificates in their pockets, but also an uncertain but hopeful future.