What is Saxony doing to counter the looming shortage of skilled workers?
For our new 2030 skilled labour strategy, we brought all our partners together round one table. Nothing like that has ever been done before in Saxony, and the reason it is so important is that this issue depends on everyone. Our common goal is to make even better use of the existing potential of skilled workers. One important starting point is more practically relevant, continuous career guidance. We also support the advancement of the dual system of theoretical and practical training, alongside more work-based qualifications and CPD. After all, the digitisation of the working world is making lifelong learning increasingly important for employees and companies.
That won’t be possible without international skilled workers. How attractive is Saxony to international skilled workers and what areas will take some catching up?
It’s true that Saxony won’t be able to rise to the challenge of securing enough skilled workers without controlled immigration. That is why we need to deliberately approach skilled workers from Germany and abroad. In the competition for the best minds, Saxony has to develop a stronger profile as an attractive place to live, learn and work. “Soft factors” affecting location choices play a role in this. These include the quality of life in the region, affordable housing, a well-developed social infrastructure and cultural offerings. We have plenty to show in that regard, from Annaberg to Zittau! The most important thing is tolerance and a global mindset all round; then everyone will feel at home in Saxony.
