# 192: Oh, Germany
Story behind the Passage
Last week I spoke to a dear colleague of mine who is from Pakistan. He works harder than many people I know. He produces more output than many people I know. He has an innovative and socially relevant research topic. But all these things do not count much when it comes to research grants and (permanent) positions. “The system is very closed in Germany,” he said. Yes, we know this. It does not just apply to international students and scholars but especially to them. And, yes, it is an academic market problem that is responsible for this, not necessarily stereotypes or even racism on behalf of those people hiring. Still, it is at is is. And whenever something “is at it is,” I need to write.
My Learnings
There is a country that takes pride,
In poets and thinkers at the fireside.
It invites talents from over the world,
To study and research of their own accord.
Beware, as soon as they finish their degree,
The country forgets about its longstanding plea.
To build a future for its devoted scholars,
They have done their share for the statistical numbers.
Now they have to see how to survive,
In a system without mercy and innovation drive.
It pushes them out better sooner than later,
Killing all the potential and hopes they cater.
Oh, Germany, take a minute to ponder,
You are wasting the chance for a “second wonder.”
Reflection Questions
1) What do you know about the funding of the public education system in your country?
2) If you were a student from abroad living in Germany right now — would you like to stay here?
3) What is more important for you personally, money, education, free time, or adventure?