School students need systematic, as early as possible, practical and realistic career orientation. Internships in companies are vital. Additionally, all types of schools, including grammar schools, should mandatorily inform about the perspectives of dual vocational training and subsequent higher vocational education as alternative and equivalent pathways to university studies. The German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IHK) is ready to contribute here. Alongside personal counselling from training advisors, career guidance experts or training ambassadors, digital formats for parents should also receive boosts.
For comparability and transparency regarding achievements and school qualifications of their applicants, companies are calling for mandatory educational standards, nationally agreed and implemented across Germany. Furthermore, there should be more initiatives to pique interest in STEM careers, economic fundamentals, and entrepreneurship. The IHK organisation has published further recommendations in its position paper "Improving school education – Securing skilled professionals for the economy".
To prevent unrealistic career aspirations and reduce dropouts from vocational training, it’s essential to accurately match young individuals based on their personal requirements with appropriate companies. The nationwide strengthening of youth career agencies involving IHKs should happen, turning them into the first point of contact for young people in career planning. Political discussions about levied-financed training guarantees should end given declining applicant numbers and numerous vacancies. Operational training must always take precedence over external trainee programs to bolster graduates’ labour market opportunities.
Promotion schemes such as entry qualification programmes, supported training and mentoring should gain more visibility and further development. Those who drop out of university should quickly connect with vocational training firms.