Dual system ensures innovation

The vocational education system in Germany offers a large variety of recognised training occupations to young people. The exact number varies from year to year as new trades are added, whereas others are modernised or abolished.

According to the Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB), there are currently 348 recognised training occupations. Between 2001 and 2010, 45 new trades have been developed, 163 were modernised.

Especially for the new key technologies such as materials technology, nanotechnology, optical technology, microsystems technology or life science new training occupations have been generated or were adjusted.