EMPLOYABILITY AND SECURITY IN A FLEXIBLE GLOBAL LABOUR MARKET Learning, training and qualifications in Germany German system undermined by rapidly changing economy Education, and the dual apprenticeship training system, are widely credited with providing basic support for the German economy. However, rapid and continued economic and social changes are now undermining the system. Winfried Heidemann, head of the qualifications department at the Hans Böckler Foundation, argues that profound reform is required.‘Even now there are deep divisions between the general education and vocational training systems as well as a growing gulf between initial and further vocational training.’ The dual system originated in the 12th century as a way for merchants and traders to pass on their skills. Dual training takes place at two locations, within the company and at part­time vocational colleges; the priority for training lies with the company. The main aim of dual training is to provide practical work experience and make an individual employable at the end of their training. The system reflects German occupational patterns, focusing on stable, industry-wide occupations. Course curricula, which follow strict guidelines, lead to a national certificate. Without a qualification, people are effectively excluded from higher paid jobs and professions. This highly regulated system, maintained by co-operation between employers, trade unions and government working together, worked until now because of Germany’s industrial structure, in which larger enterprises were prepared to support training. Beyond the dual system, the only major training schemes are government-organised programmes focused on training for the unemployed. The growth of the new economy, with its low level of regulation and government involvement, has put pressure on the dual system. Technical developments, economic globalisation and new business strategies have weakened the old occupations. The idea of training for lifelong employment in the same occupation, preferably in the same enterprise, is now a thing of the past. As a result, Germany’s traditional training system is in crisis. Decreasing numbers of young people are seeking places in the dual system, and the proportion of young people entering the workforce without such qualifications is increasing. Participation in further training is lower than the European average, and the proportion of long-term and older unemployed people, and of people with low qualifications or none at all, is higher in Germany than in other developed nations. This trend has been confirmed by a survey carried out by the OECD’s programme for international student assessment(PISA), which shows that German students lie well behind those in most developed nations. 25 © Anglo-German Foundation for the Study of Industrial Society