The Danish government will allocate 68 million kroner in the 2026 financial law to bolster German and French language education, aiming to reverse a decline in student enrollment. Christina Egelund, Minister for Higher Education and Research, attributes this decline to negative publicity surrounding humanities educations.

Enrollment in general language subjects has nearly halved, dropping from approximately 1900 in 2011 to around 1000 in 2025. Specifically, German and French education enrollment has plummeted by 60 percent, reaching only 84 admitted students in 2025. This decrease occurred despite an overall increase in students pursuing higher education, with science and technical fields attracting more applicants.

Egelund acknowledges the government’s role in this issue, stating that negative perceptions of humanities educations have deterred potential students. The allocated funds will be used to enhance the attractiveness of these educational pathways.

Christina Egelund says that the investment will help improve the quality of teaching and expand exchange opportunities. The ministry plans to collaborate with universities to determine the most effective allocation of these funds.