"Embracing Transformation: Capitalizing on Change"
In the heart of Germany, Düsseldorf’s labor market is undergoing significant changes, with a focus on digital transformation, skills development, and inclusivity. This shift is being spearheaded by Birgitta Kubsch-von Harten, a renowned expert on labor market development in the region.
Kubsch-von Harten, recognising the rapid changes in the world of work due to digitization, has emphasised the need for further training and qualification. Her motto, "Seize the change as an opportunity," encapsulates her approach to the evolving landscape.
Last year, the unemployment rate stood at 8.0 percent. However, recent statistics show a promising trend. In December 2021, 1,298 new socially insured jobs were reported, marking an increase of 129 jobs compared to the same month in 2020 (+2.5 percent). This growth continued, with a total of 5,322 jobs currently available for placement.
The career guidance provided by the agency works closely with Düsseldorf's schools and universities, offering career orientation counseling for all, regardless of employment status. The agency also aims to invest in further training projects, particularly for people without vocational training.
Digital transformation is a key focus area for the agency. Plans are underway to expand digital products and offers, including consultation via video communication, online appointment scheduling, and online job registration.
The agency's efforts in 2022 will be particularly directed towards supporting young people in finding their professional paths. This is a response to the challenges ahead, as acknowledged by Kubsch-von Harten.
However, the road to recovery is not without its hurdles. In August 2021, 1,860 companies in Düsseldorf reported short-time work for 15,226 employees. While this number has decreased, with only 70 new or renewed short-time work notifications registered in December 2021, affecting a maximum of 850 persons, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for support.
Despite these challenges, Kubsch-von Harten remains optimistic. Her comprehensive approach, which includes promoting digital skills, strengthening vocational training, attracting and retaining talent, supporting SMEs and startups, aligning labor market development with sustainability goals, and fostering inclusivity, reflects a commitment to nurturing a resilient, dynamic, and inclusive labor market in Düsseldorf.
Kubsch-von Harten's comprehensive approach to labor market development, encompassing digital skills, vocational training, and inclusivity, is a part of her strategy for personal growth and education-and-self-development in the face of digital transformation. The career guidance provided by the agency is also focused on education-and-self-development, offering career orientation counseling for all and investing in further training projects, particularly for those without vocational training.
