German-Indonesian exchange on the future of VET

As part of a virtual study visit organized by the BMZ and GIZ with over 140 Indonesian representatives, BIBB provided an insight into the role and tasks of the Institute in dual VET in Germany.

The BIBB mission: Innovating training – Building futures

In his presentation, Prof. Dr. Hubert Ertl, Director of Research and Permanent Representative of the President, highlighted BIBB's self-image as an advisor for a wide range of stakeholders and facilitator of their involvement in VET. 

In view of societal, ecological and economic transformation processes and their impact on work and vocational education and training, Prof. Ertl explained how, for example, the ongoing modernization of training occupations is opening up opportunities for shaping VET practice. 

Examples are the new standard items in training occupation regulations (Standardberufsbildpositionen) that were developed in collaboration with social partners, the federal government and the states for all dual training occupations to ensure basic competencies of trainees and future employees. Furthermore, the differentiation options created by means of additional qualifications (Zusatzqualifikationen) and elective qualification units (Wahlqualifikationen) represent current approaches to flexibly respond to different and constantly changing needs and interests of training companies and trainees. 

Strengthening the attractiveness of VET through innovations

"Understanding digitalisation as an opportunity also means keeping VET attractive for young people – who are becoming fewer in Germany due to demographic change." 

In view of the increased significance of environmental protection and sustainability in professional, social and private activities Prof. Ertl also emphasized the importance of new ideas and approaches in VET practice. In this regard, BIBB has been successfully implementing pilot projects in the area of sustainability in collaboration with partners for the past 20 years to develop, test and transfer innovations for in-company training. 

Furthermore, the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi) and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs (BMAS) presented initiatives such as the Alliance for Initial and Further Training and the National Strategy for Continuing Vocational Education and Training. In cooperation with stakeholders from politics, business and industry as well as society, these initiatives aim to contribute to the modernization of initial and continuing VET in Germany.  

Following the presentations by BIBB, BMWi and BMAS, the speakers replied to the questions of the delegation participants in a panel discussion. Among other things, the Indonesian guests were interested in the history of BIBB's development. Peter Rechmann, Deputy Head of the Federal Government's Central Office for International Cooperation in Vocational Education and Training (GOVET), explained which motives were and are decisive for the involvement of the various interest groups on the part of industry, employers and trade unions to participate in dual VET and the work of BIBB.