The German government raised the level of state-aid for German students by 7%. As of the academic year 2016/2017, students can receive up to 735 Euro a month. Press release (in German) German government adopts national strategy for the completion of the European Research Area 

On 16 July Germany adopted a national strategy for the completion of the European Research Area (ERA). This makes it the first country in the European Union to do so. Along with the formulation of political directions and objectives, the strategy provides a roadmap with concrete actions. It also foresees the setting up of Europe-wide research infrastructures and using the potential of Open Access for knowledge sharing. 

Press release (in German) Press release (in English)  Strategy of the Federal Government on the European Research Area (ERA)