In 2012, more than 2,500 graduates have passed their skilled tradesman examinations at the Schwerin Chamber of Industry and Commerce, covering 128 vocational education and training occupations. Many of them performed well or very well. They are eligible for a three-year scholarship.
For more than 20 years now, the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) supports young occupational talents in their efforts towards continuing qualification after successful completion of an apprenticeship. In this year, the one hundred thousandth scholarship was awarded.
The Stiftung Begabtenförderung berufliche Bildung (SBB - Foundation Vocational Training for the Highly Talented) is responsible for the nationwide coordination of the continuing education scholarship programme. The scholarship programme is implemented in the dual vocational training professions by some 300 involved chambers and responsible bodies.
So far, the continuing education scholarship results at the Schwerin Chamber of Industry and Commerce are very positive. Since the launch of the scholarship programme, 231 female and 201 male graduates of the dual vocational training system were able to increase their occupational and personal competencies over the course of a three-year scholarship period. The programme allocated funds totalling 790,000 Euro. In this year alone, 86,000 Euro are budgeted for the scholarship programme.
"With the scholarship programme "Weiterbildungsstipendium - Durchstarten für Berufseinsteiger" (Continuing education scholarship - Touch and go for young professionals), young people who have graduated with outstanding performance from a dual vocational training apprenticeship, are given a clear incentive for their personal development. The programme is implemented by the Chamber of Industry and Commerce.
Over the course of three years, young professionals can receive funds to a maximum of 2,000 Euro per year for financing extra-occupational continuing education", emphasises Peter Todt, Business Unit Manager Vocational Training and Continuing Education at the Schwerin Chamber of Industry and Commerce.