Egyptian entrepreneurs visit Miele and Reckenberg College

Delegation of Egyptian entrepreneurs visits Gütersloh district. An invitation from Klaus Brandner, chair of Pro Bildung Egypt and former secretary of state showcases the advantages of the German dual system of vocational education and training.

 

Company-based vocational education and training is not typical in Egypt. "Without progress in professional qualification, the social and economic situation in Egypt – which is already difficult – is only going to get worse," said Klaus Brandner.

The visit to the Miele Factory gave the Egyptian managers the opportunity to find out about training in practice. The idea of companies taking responsibility for training courses in which specified knowledge and skills are taught was new to them: this does not exist as yet in their country.

However, Klaus Brandner considers this aspect to be absolutely key to success: "reliable standards in vocational education and training and involvement on the part of employees leads to an increase in productivity and so in competitiveness."

It certainly will not be possible to simply transplant the German system to Egypt, without any adaptation. But exchanging views with Egyptian partners has made it clear to Brandner again and again that "our dual system of vocational education and training could generate considerable momentum for better company-based vocational education and training internationally."

In order to give the Egyptian delegation insight into a German vocational school, he took them on a visit of Reckenberg Vocational College in Rheda-Wiedenbrück. Here, the guests were able to see the daily work of a typical vocational school, which besides vocational education, includes political education, and sport.

"Improving the economic and job situation in Egypt would have a positive impact on the current refugee situation," said Klaus Brandner. It is the largest Arab country, so if it was stronger in economic terms and in social participation, more people would be able to take refugee there from violence and civil war in neighbouring countries.


Source: Local TV station Guetersloh TV, gueterslohtv.de, revised by iMOVE, February 2016