The "German Professional School" project, designed for vocational training of young foreigners in Thuringia, has garnered interest from multiple parties. A representative from the Ministry of Economics confirmed this, mentioning that applications from interested educational institutions are currently being reviewed. The ministry plans to announce the chosen organization in the coming weeks, with the school set to commence operations in March 2024. Four locations across Thuringia are slated for the school's establishment.
This initiative marks a significant step in preparing young migrants for vocational roles in the state. Initially, the program will focus on refugees already living in Germany who hold a right to stay or a tolerated stay permit. The Ministry of Economic Affairs has earmarked a single-digit million sum for the project in 2024.
Thuringia aims to leverage all available employment resources to counteract the upcoming retirement wave and meet the labor market's need for skilled workers. With an increasing population of refugees in need of integration, this project serves a dual purpose.
The curriculum will include language acquisition, intercultural skills, basic knowledge about Germany and Thuringia, and core values such as democracy, the rule of law, equality, freedom of opinion, and belief, among others. Internships and contact exchanges with companies and vocational schools are also planned.
To integrate migrant youth into the labor market effectively, the ministry is exploring potential partnerships with various organizations. Institutions like Culture Goes Europe Erfurt e.V., Central German Institute for Qualification and Vocational Rehabilitation (MIQR), Warubi Academy, and Make it in Germany, with their respective focuses on education, vocational training, and employment opportunities, may be considered. However, as of now, the specific organizations considered for operating the "German School" are unconfirmed.
