2017 Educational Monitor

Positive evaluation of indicators relating to vocational education and Training (VET).

"We are delighted that all vocational education and Training indicators have received such a positive assessment in the 2017 Educational Monitor," said Eugen Straubinger, National Chair of the Federal Association of Teachers at Vocational Schools (BLBS). The Educational Monitor is published annually by the German Institute for Business Research in Cologne (IW) on behalf of the New Social Market Economy Initiative (INSM). Objects of evaluation include aspects such as the extent to which the federal states are encouraging growth or the actions they are taking to secure a supply of skilled workers.

It is revealed that vocational education and training is making a significant crucial contribution to the success of Germany's overall business model. The dual VET system exerts a positive influence on the transition from school to work and is of crucial significance with regard to achieving a low level of youth unemployment. In international terms, German vocational education and training is enjoying considerable recognition and growing demand.

Nevertheless, demographic development and the increasing trend amongst young people to opt for higher education study mean that companies are facing major challenges when it comes to finding suitable candidates in training occupations with a technical background.

The overall ranking of the federal states exhibits major differences. Information is provided on contributions made to improving labour market opportunities and to increasing training provision. The rates of trainees successfully completing training are also included. Significant disparities emerge here: Bavaria 73.7 points, Baden-Württemberg 56.9 points, Hesse 42.5 points and North Rhine-Westphalia 18.4 points.

"The study shows that the federal states need to make significant improvements in teacher supply and, especially within the context of digitalisation, must do the same with regard to the material equipment at vocational schools," said Mr. Straubinger. "This is something which the BLBS has been demanding for years."