Dual training – the path to success

"Dual training – the path to success": In 2021, the Franco-German VET stakeholders used this slogan to promote dual training on social media. The German-Franco Chamber of Industry and Commerce (AHK France), the Paris Dauphine University (PSL), Franco-German Youth Office (FGYO), ProTandem and the Franco-German University (FGU) are partners in a campaign which, in 2021, was met with huge interest, particularly from young people. In order to strengthen the impact and improve visibility, a communication campaign has been launched today. The opportunities offered to young people in France and Germany in a range of occupations and occupational fields via the different dual training programmes need to be highlighted.

France and Germany are both characterised by the extensive development of apprentice training and dual training. In 2021 in France, for example, the number of young people with a training contract exceeded 700,000 for the first time. In Germany, the proportion of trainees among young people at secondary level was approximately 50% while in France the proportion was 20% (Source: Pôle Emploi France).

According to the French Ministry of Labour, Employment, Vocational Training and Social Dialogue, 70% of young people in France who complete an apprenticeship find a job within six months of obtaining their qualification. For example, in their Sales Development Officer dual training programme, the German-Franco Chamber of Industry and Commerce recorded an employment rate of 80% within six months of receiving the qualification.

The youth employment rate is significantly higher in countries where apprentice training is more widespread, while in Europe as a whole youth unemployment remains high. In April 2022, the unemployment rate for young people in the EU under the age of 25 was at an average of 14 per cent, however significant differences do exist between individual countries (35 per cent in Greece and Spain, 18.9 per cent in France and 6.9 per cent in Germany, according to Eurostat).

The aim of the campaign "Dual training – the path to success" is to make companies, young people and their families aware of the numerous opportunities which dual training offers. It represents a complete solution which opens up access to future-oriented occupations and occupational fields for young people.