08.12.2025 - For the 20th time, the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) honours the nationwide top-performing IHK apprentices today. Out of around 250,000 graduates of IHK final examinations in 2025, 211 young people succeeded in 201 vocational training professions. Some share first place due to identical scores.

Congratulations from the highest authorities

Federal Education Minister Karin Prien and DIHK President Peter Adrian handed out trophies and certificates to the laureates. Adrian praised the achievements of the top performers: "This is your evening! You demonstrate: practice is key. You can be proud of your tremendous accomplishments.” He also thanked the parents, trainers, and teachers at vocational schools.

Challenges for dual training

The DIHK President reflected on developments over the past 20 years: "During our premiere, training places were scarce. Despite economic crises today, applicants are the ones who are scarce.” The central task remains advocating for dual education. Especially in the era of AI, the motto holds: "Those who have tangible skills and are close to customers have a promising career ahead. Hence, our nationwide IHK campaign is named: Now can learn – Apprenticeship builds more within us." A key to increasing vocational education, Adrian continued, lies in practical-oriented career guidance and expanding company internships in enterprises. Gymnasium students also need insights into the variety of vocational professions. Here, apprenticeship ambassadors could be particularly helpful—apprentices visiting schools to inform students about their vocational professions, the DIHK President noted.

Federal Education Minister Karin Prien emphasized: "When we integrate education and profession right from the start, we can sustainably counteract the skilled labour shortage. We enhance career guidance, enabling young individuals to find and confidently pursue their own paths early. Simultaneously, we modernize vocational education and create clear perspectives for advancement and qualification. Continuing education becomes the decisive engine, empowering skilled workers to confidently shape change. Thus, we secure future opportunities for all—and our country's competitiveness."

Facts and figures

• 211 nationwide top-performers in 201 professions
• 96 women, 115 men
• Top states: Baden-Württemberg (47), followed by NRW (34) and Bavaria (31)
• Several companies consistently produced multiple nationwide top-performers.

Festive award ceremony

Approximately 1,000 guests celebrated in Berlin—including relatives, representatives of training companies and vocational schools, politicians as well as presidents and CEOs of the chambers of commerce and industry. Moderator Thore Schölermann hosted the event for the fourth time, which was broadcast live at www.dihk.de/bestenehrung. The awardees received not only trophies and certificates but also a digital "Open Badge" for their social media profiles.