Germany moves to cushion coronavirus impact on vocational training

German officials, industry representatives and trade unions agreed on measures to "cushion" the impact of the coronavirus crisis on the vocational training in the country, the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy announced on Tuesday.

As one of the measures, German companies that take on trainees from bankrupt companies were to receive a temporary employment bonus, according to the ministry.

In addition, digital formats should be used more extensively in order to provide more targeted advice and placement services to German trainees and companies, the ministry said.

The partners of the so-called "alliance for training and further education" wanted to ensure that trainees in Germany could continue their vocational training and could pass their exams despite the "current difficult situation."

Looking ahead, all parties agreed to jointly pursue the goal of being able to offer sufficient apprenticeship places in the coming training years as well, according to the ministry.

The German vocational education and training system, also known as the dual training system, is highly recognized worldwide due to its combination of theory taught in public schools and job training at private companies.

"Dual training is a brand essence of our country and our ticket to an economically successful future. That is why we must keep it going, especially in difficult times," said Minister of Labor and Social Affairs Hubertus Heil.

(CGTN)