18 Nigerians Chosen for German Vocational Program

The Giessen-Friedberg Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK) has chosen 18 young Nigerians to prepare for careers in the hospitality industr...

The Giessen-Friedberg Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK) has chosen 18 young Nigerians to prepare for careers in the hospitality industry in Germany.

Eighteen young Nigerians were revealed in Lagos following their successful completion of the selection process for Dual Vocational Training as part of the Africa Skills 4 Germany program.

The initial initiative, African Skills 4 Germany (AS4G), supported by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi), seeks to address the long-term shortage of skilled workers and trainees in Germany.

In an interview with journalists, Daniel Krull, the German Consul General in Lagos, stated that the choice represents a reaffirmation of its dedication to enhancing vocational training facilities and building institutional collaborations throughout Nigeria, working alongside the federal government.

He emphasized that Germany is experiencing an increasing elderly population, highlighting the significance of welcoming legal migration from young individuals to bolster the labor force.

Germany is experiencing a rapid aging population, with many individuals retiring and thus creating an increasing demand for a younger workforce. Meanwhile, Nigeria has a quickly expanding population—characterized by a young demographic that is highly skilled, driven, and looking for job opportunities but facing difficulties in securing them.

So it's somewhat natural to examine how these two nations can collaborate and create new possibilities for legal migration of Nigerians to Germany.

It's not solely focused on building skills; it's equally about shaping personalities that will influence the future careers of these young Nigerians, who will eventually work in Germany, Dubai, and Lagos," he stated.

He mentioned that the chosen young Nigerians will receive language instruction and cultural education to ensure they are well-prepared for their trip to Germany next summer.

"We are running a pilot initiative here where participants have gone through a rigorous selection process, and they are now receiving training in skills, language, and cultural orientation, so they will be well-prepared to arrive in Germany next summer," he said.

He mentioned that the result of this initial phase will influence the program's long-term viability, noting that the nation could need expertise in a different field later on.

The head of the African Skills for Germany initiative at the Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CCI), Andreas Reckert, mentioned that more than 350 candidates were evaluated, with 18 ultimately chosen, as they successfully passed the language proficiency, written examination, and oral interview.

"There is no cost for the language classes, cultural training, or hospitality-related instruction for the students. They only need to contribute their time, skills, and enthusiasm, and they are responsible for the flight and travel expenses. However, all other costs will be covered by the German companies," he said.

He emphasized that the chosen young Nigerians will receive a salary sufficient to cover their costs, accommodation, and food during their training trips.

"That is particularly relevant to Germany, which is why it appeals so much to young Nigerians — as they don't need a credit or external support systems. During the training, they make money because they are working hard, thus earning income," he said.

Bolade Niyi-Taiwo, an HR consultant and German language teacher, mentioned that the applicants have finished the initial stage and will complete the second part of the training by the end of November.

The trainees began their training on August 18, and the initial phase of the program concluded in October, with all of them succeeding remarkably. We are currently in the second phase of the program, which is scheduled to end in November. This pilot initiative aims to establish a strong foundation for an outstanding relationship between Germany and Nigeria," she stated.

One of the contenders, Afolashade Adedeji, who teaches chemistry, showed excitement about being chosen, stating she will do her utmost to achieve a strong result.

"I used to be a chemistry teacher and learned about this program through the internet. I took a chance and gave it a try, and after seeing the guidelines, I applied and was selected. I view myself as a pathfinder for future participants since my results will influence who comes after me, so I am putting in my best effort," she said.

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