Photo: Andrea Herzog, PODIUM-Redner
Photo: Henning Scheffen
and is a passionate advocate for a valuesbased approach to digital education. She speaks about the potential of AI in classrooms, the importance of ethics in the digital sphere, and the urgent need to protect young people online – which she has written multiple books about. “Adults need greater awareness and understanding of what children and teenagers are really exposed to on social media,” she stresses. “Many don’t know what terms like cybergrooming, sextortion, deepfakes or nudes actually mean. It’s not the kids actively seeking harmful content – due to the algorithm, the content finds them.”
Müller’s impact reaches far beyond the education sector. Business leaders and executives turn to her for insights on human-centred leadership. “Leadership needs to shift its focus back on people. A kind word in the staff kitchen, a thoughtful note saying ‘well done’ – that’s where it starts,” she says. “And that mindset must carry over into digital communication too. Appreciative emails, warm voice notes. Equally, fears must be acknowledged.”
When Silke Müller takes the stage, something shifts in the room. Audiences fall silent – moved, reflective, inspired. As an expert on education, SPIEGEL bestselling author, long-standing headteacher and digital ambassador for the state of Lower Saxony, she stands for a bold new way of thinking about schools and learning. “The problem is that our school system in its current form is outdated and resembles more of a charming ruin management,” she says. “We lack standards, long-term funding models and expertise. Teacher training is still not compulsory. And there is no obligation from federal or state governments to ensure that every pupil has equal access to digital devices.” Yet Müller does more than highlight problems – she offers tangible paths to change 122
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Issue 12 9
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May 2025
Her talks provide clear, actionable advice – from introducing media usage agreements to designating screen-free time for families.
Humanity runs like a thread through all of Silke Müller’s work. As she puts it; “We all have the power to change so much in our society for the better – through compassion and humanity.” www.silkemueller.com
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“It’s the responsibility of parents and schools, of the state and society, to protect every single child,” she adds.
TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE
Silke Müller is one of the most sought-after voices in the German-speaking world when it comes to digital transformation, ethics and education. Her keynotes resonate – emotionally charged, razor-sharp, challenging and deeply necessary.
PHOTOS: MICHAEL MÜLLER
WORDS THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE