What is the DIHK Education Committee, and how does a training company experience its influence in daily life?

The DIHK Education Committee focuses on advancing vocational education within the IHK organisation. While the vocational training committees of individual IHKs address specific training issues locally, the DIHK Education Committee discusses and agrees on fundamental positions for modern, practical, and business-oriented vocational education at the federal level. Members of the DIHK Education Committee are delegated by regional IHKs and are largely representatives of training companies.

For training companies, the committee’s work becomes evident in many ways, such as through modern professions, reliable and nationally comparable examinations, as well as practical recommendations on digitalisation, securing skilled labour, or designing quality training.

Everyone knows about IHK examinations, but few appreciate the quality assurance behind them. What should trainers know about fairness, transparent procedures, and disadvantage compensation?

For trainers, it's particularly important that procedures are organised transparently: examination requirements, assessment criteria, and potential legal recourses are publicly regulated and understandable. At the same time, great emphasis is placed on objectivity as examinations are conducted by qualified, trained, and voluntarily engaged examiners. Additionally, disadvantage compensation is provided to ensure equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities without altering the examination standards.

Voluntary examiners are increasingly scarce in many areas. Why should companies release employees for this role?

Those who participate as examiners secure their own skilled labour supply by directly observing requirements, trends, and new talents. Companies involved in examinations gain valuable insights into the competencies of young people, strengthen their networks, and enhance their employer image. At the same time, employees serving as examiners benefit from professional and pedagogical development, which they bring back to their employers. Without their commitment, high-quality vocational education would not be possible.

For someone interested in getting involved: What are the first concrete steps towards joining a regional vocational training committee?

Joining a regional vocational training committee is often simpler than expected: the first point of contact is the relevant IHK, usually the Vocational Education department. The time commitment is manageable, with around three to four meetings a year. At the same time, this engagement offers the opportunity to help shape vocational education – a commitment that is both professionally enriching and socially impactful.