R AlEXANDER P HANSEN speaks with Sangeeta Yadav about Germany’s education initiatives, research work and how their new employment act will make it easy for employees seeking a job in the skilled manpower sector in India. Excerpts
What was the purpose of launching the German House for Research and Innovation project in IndiaIJ
India is one of the top countries in the world in technology, scientific research and innovation. With an aim to having key partners and highlighting the bilateral academic and research co-operation, we set up DWIH — German House for Research and Innovation in India. It provides a platform to students and researchers wanting to pursue higher education in Germany. We intend to reach out to students not just in the metros but also in other Tier II cities.
What makes Germany a popular student destinationIJ
We’re known for technical and research courses but other areas like humanities are also becoming increasingly popular among international students. Academic institutions and business enterprises pool their innovative forces and this integration of industry and academia makes Germany a leading country in various fields. language doesn’t pose a problem as there are about 1,500 English language courses being offered by various German universities.
What about Vocational Education and Training Schools (VET) for skilled trainingIJ
VET schools have a holistic programme with theory and practicals. Under this initiative, the student will also undergo apprenticeship with a company in the trade they are being trained at, which gives them prior knowledge and experience to work with a company and also a chance to be absorbed by the same company.
What is International Marketing of Vocational Education & Training (iMOVE) all aboutIJ
iMOVE is an initiation of the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research to promote the internationalisation of the German training providers of Vocational Education & Training. It’s target audience is small and medium enterprises from the vocational education and training sector, training providers, political decision makers and industry representatives. iMOVE is working on expanding and building awareness of the German dual system as well as work with national skills development corporation (NSDC) on sector skills council. We have also opened a branch office in German House, New Delhi.
How many Indian students come to Germany for higher educationIJ
The year 2012-13 saw 2,82,201 international students studying in Germany (about 11.3 per cent of total students). Out of this around 7,532 students were Indians which was an increase of 25.58 per cent from the previous year. The post study work visa rules are also not stringent and allow students to experience Germany beyond the stipulated time of study.
Tell us about the scholarship plans for foreign studentsIJ
Tuition fees are highly subsidised for Indian students. German academic Exchange Service offers a number of scholarships for students with excellent academic records. There has been an increase of 56.7 per cent in Indians who have received financial support from this service since the year 2008. Different universities have different criteria and schemes of scholarship based on the field of study and student eligibility.
Tell us about your alumni portal, DeutschlandIJ
Deutschland isn’t just a network of alumni of various German universities; it’s a community where individuals and organisations can benefit with mutual understanding and cooperation. It offers a platform for alumni to connect with each other, seek favourable job opportunities and organisations to scout for talent.
What do you have to say about the lack of skilled manpower in all countriesIJ
Since recession there has only been one word which has dominated the globe — unemployment. After millions of workers got laid off, it was realised that there was a huge gap in skilled workers. All over the world, there is an acute shortage of welders and electricians, engineers, mechanics, machinists and IT specialists and this shortage is on the rise, eventually having an impact on the operations of the companies. These are usually the tertiary and secondary companies such as manufacturing, construction, mining, etc. To fill this gap there has been a huge movement across the globe to boost the secondary and tertiary education as well as the specialised training in these sectors.
What are the qualifications that a fresher must possessIJ
In depth knowledge of the field/sector, academic excellence, passion to strive and learn and requisite skill sets of the particular job are key factors that any industry would look for in a fresher.
As per reports, at least 40,000 skilled employees would be required for various sectors. How is Germany going to deal with this demandIJ
From July 1 onwards, skilled workers from non-EU countries will find it easier to relocate to Germany. The new Employment Act will come into effect, which is aimed at counteracting the current shortage of skilled workers and enhancing Germany’s position in the worldwide competition for qualified professionals.
In August 2012, the German Government had already introduced the “blue card” aimed at recruiting university graduates from abroad. It lists all qualifications for which there is currently a shortage of qualified staff. In order to come to Germany, skilled professionals from third world countries have to document that their qualification is comparable to a German qualification in the same field. The equivalence is assessed by German chambers of trade, industry and commerce. To help them with this complex task, they can turn to the BQ portal for comprehensive information on foreign vocational systems and professional profiles. The post study work visa rules are also not stringent and allow students to experience Germany beyond the stipulated time of study.