What is Ausbildung?

Ausbildung is…

Ausbildung, dual vocational training, is Germany's most important pillar of vocational education and enjoys a high reputation worldwide. The training is in most cases a three-year educational program combining on-site and off-site training simultaneously. The systems' success lies in merging learning and work, emphasizing "learning by doing" in the workplace, and avoiding artificial, theory-based learning situations. Specially qualified trainers in the workplace provide practical knowledge of the profession. Thanks to this, the trainees learn about their future career under realistic conditions in the workplace (70%). Alongside, they also get theoretical knowledge from colleges (30%). The contents learned at work are purposely closely connected with the theoretical part of the college.

The Ausbildung process

The training content is based on the actual needs of the companies and is updated if needed. Through a complex process, professionals from in-house training and schools work hand in hand with social partners to define the skills and knowledge required. The training materials follow regulations applied nationwide to ensure a unified education system throughout Germany. More than 300 professions in Germany have implemented the Ausbildung system.

Positive impacts

It is not without reason that youth unemployment in Germany is one of the lowest in the European Union: Statistically, the dual education system has proven to be one of the best models for integrating young people into the labor market, thus making it the best antidote against youth unemployment.
Ausbildung has not only has positive effects on and within society but also on the country's economic development. All stakeholders can take advantage from Ausbildung. It is even more effective on the economy that needs a new talented workforce. Because the Companies using On-the-Job training can secure future professionals and reassure that the qualifications correspond to the company's requirements. Young people who have completed dual vocational training achieve a part of financial independence at an early age. Not only that, but they also get excellent career opportunities and often transition seamlessly from training to a permanent job.

Potential in Korea

This successful model has also piqued interest in Korea. Students, parents, and colleges are highly interested, indicating that Korean society is seeking a new alternative to education outside the existing system. With the support of the vocational training system, jobs can be created, particularly for young people entering the labor market for the first time. Thanks to their advanced knowledge and solution-oriented approach, they are valuable to the industry. The fact is that vocational training is more than just a simple compromise or a temporary solution. It is a recognized, demand-driven, and alternative way to enter the labor market that can offer young people in Korea a new perspective on life. Therefore, dual vocational training could also be a promising opportunity for Korea to meet the demand for highly skilled workers and enable the successful integration of young people into the labor market.

First steps in Korea

After two years of preparation, BMW Group Korea, and Mercedes-Benz Korea, hand in hand with KGCCI (AHK Korea), launched the first vocational training for automotive mechatronics in Korea in 2017. The joint initiative of KGCCI, BMW Group Korea, and Mercedes-Benz shows that the conditions in Korean society for a successful vocational training system indeed exist. 
Given the shortage of skilled labor in Korea, the demand from industry is high. Ausbildung is not only advantageous for foreign investors but also for Korean companies. Every profession can be covered through Ausbildung, allowing highly qualified workers to be developed in all areas.