Youth Policy in Cottbus: Focus on Structures, Participation, and Pedagogy in February 2026

Youth Policy in Cottbus: Structure, Participation, and Pedagogy

In February 2026, the city of Cottbus placed a stronger emphasis on youth participation and pedagogical innovations. Numerous meetings, debates, and decisions demonstrated how much the municipality is focusing on the future-readiness of its youth policy. Particularly notable was the variety of events that took place within just two weeks – from the election of the youth advisory board leadership to the presentation of a new educational program.

Structural Changes in the Youth Advisory Council

On February 12, the Youth Advisory Council of the city of Cottbus convened for a session in which fundamental structural decisions were made. After confirming the minutes, the focus was on adopting the rules of procedure, electing the chairpersons, and defining responsibilities. These decisions mark a milestone in the development of the council, which will act more institutionalized and transparent in the future.

The election of chairpersons and the definition of responsibilities show how much Cottbus is relying on a structured form of youth participation. Additionally, the trip to Montreuil was mentioned, which among other things serves to strengthen European youth partnerships. The Youth Officer Lea Sattler emphasized in her reports that the integration of young voices into political decision-making processes is central to the city's future.

Pedagogical Innovations: The PERMA.teach Program

Another highlight was the presentation of the "PERMA.teach" program at the Youth Services Planning Sub-Committee on February 16. The program aims to anchor positive education from early childhood education through to secondary school. Sarah Ostrowski, who was responsible for the presentation, explained that "PERMA.teach" is not only a training program for teachers, but also conveys a comprehensive attitude toward education.

The program is based on the PERMA model (Positive Emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, Accomplishment) and is intended to be implemented in kindergartens, elementary schools, and secondary schools. The goal is to promote resilient, socially competent, and motivated young people. Martin Bock, responsible for reports on school social work, emphasized that determining the need for school social workers is crucial given the increasing psychosocial burdens on young people.

Youth Culture on the Move: The Glad-House Works Council

The city-owned youth cultural center Glad-House was also active in February. Its Works Council met on February 12 to discuss the future of the youth cultural center. The focus was particularly on financing, the use of spaces, and the conception of youth cultural projects. The Glad-House Council is a central actor in promoting youth creativity and cultural education – especially in a city like Cottbus, which values cultural diversity.

Outlook: Youth Policy as a Strategic Field

The political decisions and debates in February show that Cottbus does not see youth policy as a peripheral topic, but as a central building block for the city's future-readiness. With the restructuring of the youth advisory council, the introduction of innovative pedagogical concepts, and the strengthening of youth cultural centers, Cottbus is making it clear: young people are not only users of resources, but actors in shaping the city.

The next steps – such as the implementation of the PERMA.teach program or the planning of the second half of the year – will show how sustainable these political impulses are. A city that actively includes its youth is making a long-term investment in its future.