"Skilled Workers in High Demand: Germany's Youth in Crisis"
Unschooled Millions of German Youth: Insights Into Unconventional Education Choice
Why are millions of young people in Germany lacking vocational training? This concerning trend has been steadily increasing for years, leaving industries scrambling for skilled workers. Here's a breakdown of the issue, complete with potential solutions.
The Apprentice Drought
More and more young adults in Germany are finding themselves without any form of vocational training or university degree. Last year, a staggering 1.6 million 20- to 34-year-olds were in this predicament. This number grows every year, with 460,000 young, unskilled individuals being added to the rolls in the past twelve years [1][2].
The Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB) reports that the matter is even worse: a whopping 2.8 million young adults are devoid of any vocational training, equating to almost every fifth individual in this age group [1][2]. The difference stems from the BIBB's statistics encompassing all young adults in this age group, while the Institute for Employment Research (IAB) only tallies employed individuals.
A Crisis of Supply and Demand
The shortage of skilled workers is alarming in light of the demand for trained professionals. Germany currently lacks over 530,000 qualified workers on average nationwide, and this number is expected to reach 200,000 more in the next two years [1][2]. By 2027, the country is projected to face a deficit of around 730,000 skilled workers, according to the Institute of the German Economy [1][2].
The School-to-Work Gap
The problem originates in schools. Each year, tens of thousands of students complete school without a degree, with 47,500 not even earning their main school leaving certificate in 2021 alone, representing around six percent of all students [1][2]. Obtaining a school leaving certificate is essential for apprenticeships, as three-quarters of job applicants without any vocational training also lack this certificate [1][2].
The Role of Immigration
Immigration plays a considerable role in the increasing number of young people without training. Nearly 45% of 20- to 34-year-old refugees from asylum countries like Syria or Afghanistan lack any vocational training [1][2]. This statistic has also risen among young people from other EU countries, albeit not as drastically. This doesn't imply immigrants are less educated but rather reflects the difference between foreign education systems and Germany's unique vocational training programs [1][2].
Breaking the Cycle
Several solutions propose to bridge the gap between young people and employment opportunities. First, low-threshold training programs that allow individuals to complete certain modules parallel to their jobs can help them acquire qualifications after a few years [1][2]. Second, expanding career guidance and career orientation can help young people make informed decisions [1][2]. Lastly, companies should be more present in schools and at career fairs. Practical experiences, such as company visits, school projects, or internships, and increased online communication can make a difference [1][2].
A Changing Landscape for Skilled Labor
Despite the current challenges, the skilled labor shortage offers opportunities for reform. For example, apprentices in their first year of training earn at least 680 euros per month, but helpers can earn significantly more, especially through online communication on platforms like YouTube, WhatsApp, and TikTok, where young people are most active [1][2].
Addressing Stumbling Blocks
There is a significant skills gap in Germany, with over 73,000 training places remaining unfilled in 2023. Companies complain about a lack of suitable applicants, with many struggling with apprentices disappearing without explanation [1][2]. In fact, nearly every fourth company with unfilled training places is affected by this "ghosting" [1][2].
Solving this issue requires better communication between companies and young people. A survey by the Bertelsmann Foundation and the Institute of the German Economy demonstrates that companies communicate on different channels than young people, with only 25% of young people searching for job opportunities on Facebook compared to 71% of companies who advertise their open positions there [1][2].
Shedding Light on Lesser-Known Opportunities
Young people need to be made aware of the earning potential in certain vocational training professions. For example, technical research and development specialists can earn significantly more than the average wage over time, with some trained employees even out-earning university graduates [1][2]. Unfortunately, young people are typically unaware of these opportunities.
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Sources
- ntv.de
- Institute of the German Economy Cologne
- Bertelsmann Foundation
- Social Networks
- TikTok
- YouTube
- Apprentices
- Universities
- Application
- School
- Occupation
- IAB
- For over 73,000 training places in Germany, there persists a skills gap, leaving companies frustrated due to a lack of suitable applicants.
- Many apps, such as YouTube, WhatsApp, and TikTok, offer opportunities for apprentices to earn significantly more, especially through online communication with potential employers.
- Low-threshold training programs could help bridge the employment gap for young people, allowing individuals to acquire qualifications after a few years.
- Career guidance and education in personal-finance and business, such as learning through the "Wieder was gelernt" podcast, can help inform decisions for one's future career.
- In 2021 alone, around six percent of all students in the age group of 20-34 did not earn their main school leaving certificate, essential for apprenticeships, and vocational training.
