Deep insights into Germany’s dual vocational training for Korean youth

The exchange program, which has been in place since 2014, has developed into an integral part of the cooperation between the Ostwürttemberg region and South Korea.

During their stay, the young participants gained an in-depth insight into the German dual vocational training system, which is attracting increasing attention in South Korea. A particular focus was placed on practical skills that are still only taught to a limited extent in Korean vocational education.

At the IHK Ostwürttemberg Training Center in Aalen, the five guests received two weeks of training in the fundamentals of metalworking. Under the guidance of the instructors, they first learned conventional turning and milling techniques before creating simple CNC programs and subsequently producing components based on technical drawings.

“The group showed an exceptional willingness to learn and adapted quickly to our machines and workflows,” reports Oliver Kosik, Head of the IHK Ostwürttemberg Training Center in Aalen. “Hands on work on modern equipment, in particular, proved to be a real benefit for the young people’s vocational training.”

The qualification phase was accompanied by MAPAL, where the apprentices gained further in depth insights into industrial manufacturing processes.
“Each year, the exchange once again demonstrates how valuable practice oriented learning is for young people – regardless of the country they come from,” emphasizes Henrik Konrad, Head of Apprenticeship Training at MAPAL. “Our Korean guests were highly motivated, very respectful, and quick to implement what they learned. It is impressive to see how much they achieved in such a short period of time.”

In addition to technical training, cultural exchange also played a key role. Weekend activities and supplementary German language classes ensured that the Korean apprentices were able to take home not only valuable professional experience, but also lasting personal impressions.