In Vienna, nearly half of first-grade students in public schools struggle with German language proficiency, hindering their ability to follow classroom instruction.

Recent data reveals that 44.6% of these students are classified as having an "extraordinary status" due to insufficient language skills.

Despite many of these children being born in Austria, the issue persists, partly attributed to the influx of refugees from Syria and Ukraine.

The situation has sparked criticism from political figures, with calls for mandatory language screenings and increased language support in kindergartens.

In response, Vienna's Vice Mayor Christoph Wiederkehr announced the expansion of free summer language courses, adding 1,000 new spots to the existing 3,900. The debate continues on how best to integrate these children and improve their educational outcomes.