The Alliance for Training and Education is a broad coalition comprised of the federal government, social partners, chamber organisations, subject minister conferences of the federal states, and the Federal Employment Agency, collectively promoting a robust, efficient, and attractive dual training system in Germany. The strength of the alliance stems from its diverse perspectives and respective responsibilities, enabling coordinated collaboration among key stakeholders in vocational education.

Three New Focus Areas for 2026 to 2029

To shape training and education collectively, the alliance partners established a new agreement providing a framework for cooperation until 2029. The agreement highlights three main areas: tackling challenges in the training market, strengthening vocational orientation, and aligning support initiatives with needs. Vocational orientation is central to these focus areas, especially from the perspective of the IHK organisation.

"Today, not only does the summer of vocational training begin, but also a new alliance for education and training. Together with politics, business, and trade unions, we want to accompany as many young people as possible over the next four years on their path to a successful professional future."

The key to this is even more consistent career orientation–for example, through training ambassadors who give students insights into their professions. At the same time, we want to create better transitions–through a student ID, stronger youth career agencies, and more entry-level qualifications. Our goal is clear: We want to bring as many young people as possible into dual training and support our companies in securing skilled workers. The alliance remains our common foundation."

A Central Pillar for Securing Skilled Labour

Dual vocational training equips young people for exciting and demanding careers while enabling them to actively shape their future. At the same time, it serves as a central pillar for securing skilled labour. Germany needs highly trained professionals now more than ever to tackle transformations driven by challenges like climate change, demographics, and digitisation.

Despite economic difficulties, the prospects for starting vocational training this year remain favourable. It is often possible to begin training just before the start date of 1st August or 1st September. Local job agencies, chambers, and associations support young people in their search for training positions.

Young people can find information and training opportunities through the "Training Campaign" known as #nowcanlearn. Vocational Training Adds More to Us | IHK - Now #canlearn Furthermore, the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry provides various local support and counselling services to ease and accompany the training journey.

Background: "Summer of Vocational Training" 2026

In 2026, the partner organisations of the Alliance for Training and Education organise the seventh "Summer of Vocational Training" to support young people starting their vocational training journey. With diverse activities and events at the federal, state, and regional levels, they aim to inform about vocational education, connect businesses with young people, and jointly demonstrate that #TrainingSTART is worthwhile.

From June to September 2026, the alliance partners offer insights into the diverse opportunities of vocational education to young people, businesses, teachers, and parents; while the focus shifts to subsequent placements in autumn.

Videos

A video message from DIHK President Peter Adrian on the Summer of Vocational Training 2026 can be viewed here.

Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz comments in a video on this initiative.

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