10.12.2025 - “The renewed decline in apprenticeship contracts indicates that challenges in the training market must be tackled more decisively. Surveys show that many companies, despite economic hardship, still wish to train apprentices but often do not receive suitable applications. This situation threatens to eliminate these companies as training providers in the future.

Despite the economic crisis, the Federal Employment Agency noted continuing higher vacancies for apprenticeships compared to the number of applicants solely focused on apprenticeships. There isn't a universal shortage of apprenticeships; rather, supply and demand often diverge. The reasons are complex. Sometimes the ideal apprenticeship for someone does not exist in their region, or the qualifications of the applicant do not align with the company's requirements. Moreover, the perception of a desired profession may not always align with reality.

Consequently, we must urgently act in matching processes and seize every opportunity to unite young individuals with companies. Initiatives laid out in the Alliance for Training and Further Education to strengthen career orientation serve as a pivotal tool. The peer-to-peer approach of apprentice ambassadors, where apprentices visit schools to authentically share their experiences, has proven effective. Ensuring that young individuals decide on apprenticeships during their school years independently of school type, stereotypes, and misconceptions, and based solely on their interests and skills, is crucial. Systematic and practical career guidance is the key.”