Industrial association and mayor reaffirm school development planning:

"Investments in education are investments in the future"

In a joint meeting, the Beckumer Industrieverein e. V. and Mayor Michael Gerdhenrich discussed the current debate on the further development of Beckum's school landscape. The conclusion is clear: Beckum needs the planned investments in its schools - now.

4 March 2026
Group picture
  • (from left): Guido Hesse (Beckumer Industrieverein e. V.), Mayor Michael Gerdhenrich and Caspar Krogbeumker (Beckumer Industrieverein e. V.) in the schoolyard of the Albertus Magnus Gymnasium.

Renovations and extensions are overdue. Some lessons are already taking place in containers. With the return to G9, the growing need for space due to the open all-day programme in primary schools and changing educational requirements, the pressure to act is increasing further. A modern educational infrastructure is not a voluntary service, but the core of municipal services of general interest.

School development planning has been carefully developed over many years - on the basis of reliable forecasts, clear space standards and well-founded feasibility studies. It is technically sound, politically agreed and financially backed; to date, it has been supported by all political groups on Beckum town council. Those involved in the dialogue agree that questioning its implementation is not only incomprehensible, but also carries the risk of considerable delays and rising costs.

The industry association reaffirms its support. Chairman Caspar Krogbeumker emphasises: "Good education is a key location factor. Families choose places with efficient schools, companies need qualified skilled workers. Investment in schools strengthens the future, education and competitiveness of our city."

Prioritisation and budgetary discipline are particularly necessary in financially challenging times. However, the top priority must be the implementation of the agreed school development plan. Planning security and reliability are crucial here. "Companies make investment decisions on the basis of reliable framework conditions - we also expect this reliability from local politics," said the industry association. School development planning is a central component of the strategic and sustainable further development of our city.

The industrial association and the mayor are therefore appealing to all political decision-makers to swiftly implement the agreed plans and make the necessary binding decisions before the summer break. After all, investments in education are investments in the future viability of our city, the business location and the opportunities of the next generation, the joint press release concludes.