Foreign trainees: Key to securing skilled workers in Saxony-Anhalt!

Foreign trainees: Key to securing skilled workers in Saxony-Anhalt!

The search for trainees from abroad is becoming more and more urgent in Saxony-Anhalt. More and more young people from different countries are filling the gaps in the labor market and are an important source for securing skilled workers. Loud World The number of foreign applicants for training positions has more than tripled in the last ten years, from 200 in 2014 to an impressive 750 in 2024.

Markus Behrens, chairman of the regional directorate of the Saxony-Anhalt – Thuringia employment agency, is optimistic about this trend. By integrating these young talents into the training market, not only economic needs are met, but also an important social dimension is served. These new trainees are particularly popular in professions such as healthcare, hospitality and manufacturing.

Diverse countries of origin

The applicants come from a wide variety of countries of origin. Around 400 of them come from asylum-seeking countries such as Afghanistan, Eritrea and Syria, while around 100 come from Ukraine. In order to make the integration of these young people easier, the authorities offer various programs and advice. Especially that one WelcomeCenter Saxony-Anhalt play a central role by acting as a contact point for those interested in immigration.

Measures to recognize foreign professional qualifications attempt to reduce the hurdles. In 2024, 1,263 applications for recognition of qualifications were registered, representing a staggering increase of 33.7% compared to the previous year. Around half of these qualifications were recognized as fully equivalent, making it easier for young migrants to enter the German labor market.

Integration facing new challenges

The need for integration is also supported by various networks such as IQ – State Network Saxony-Anhalt who offer advice on professional recognition. But despite these supportive measures, many immigrants face challenges. Language barriers and differences in work culture can make it difficult to enter the German job market.

Another aspect is the shortage of skilled workers, which can be felt in many professions and regions in Germany. Studies show that demographic developments, combined with the changes caused by the corona pandemic, are further increasing the need for skilled workers, particularly in the health and care sector. Technological progress and changes in the labor market should not be neglected either Federal Agency for Civic Education explained.

The federal government has therefore launched a skilled workers strategy to promote the integration of immigrants and at the same time improve the framework conditions for recruiting skilled workers. The Skilled Immigration Act of 2020 has significantly eased the conditions for skilled workers from third countries.

Overall, it is clear that Saxony-Anhalt and Germany are dependent on the influx of skilled workers. In order for these young talents to fully develop their potential, everyone involved must pull together and actively support integration.