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As part of the Dual Education Fact Finding Mission, we had the pleasure of welcoming and accompanying a delegation of experts in vocational education and training from Namibia, Eswatini, South Africa, and Lesotho for a two-day visit to Graz.
The mission was one of the first concrete activities within the framework of the Austrian Africa Strategy and offered insights into the Austrian system of dual education, career orientation, and skilled worker development.
At Sandvik, the delegation gained practical insights into how apprentices are recruited, trained, and supported during their education. At the Talentcenter, the delegation learned about a practical approach to career orientation. Young people complete various tests there on their motor, cognitive, and personal skills and subsequently receive an evaluation that highlights their strengths and identifies suitable career fields. A tour of the Center of Excellence complemented the visit and provided the delegation with further insights into vocational education and training.
Another focus was the professional exchange on different approaches to dual education and vocational qualification. In addition to the delegation, representatives from the Federal Ministry, AEE INTEC, eee Austria – International Projects, the Institute for Economic and Location Development of the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber (WKO), CAMPUS 02, and WIFI participated. Envoy Stefan Scholz, who was instrumental in the creation of the Austrian Africa Strategy, also accompanied the delegation.
At KNAPP, the delegation gained further insights into the practices of an internationally active technology company and its internal qualification programs for skilled workers during a company tour.
Two of our current projects were also part of the program: Karin Hölbling presented Fit 4 Global Projects, and Abigail Garcia introduced DiGEM – Digital Gateway Emerging Markets. Both initiatives demonstrate how companies can be supported in internationalization, competence development, and access to Emerging Markets.
The two days showed how valuable direct exchange is for learning about different further education approaches, establishing new contacts, and creating concrete starting points for future cooperation between Austria and Southern Africa.
