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Improved vocational training through joint sponsorship by Darmstadt and Darmstadt-Dieburg
Darmstadt. In light of growing challenges in securing skilled workers, the Green Party in Darmstadt is calling for close cooperation between the city of Darmstadt and the Darmstadt-Dieburg district in the area of vocational education. The party believes that a joint school association for vocational schools could contribute to making the training of future skilled workers more efficient, modern, and of higher quality.
The structural basis for such a model is provided by the Hessian School Law (§§ 140 and 143), which explicitly permits inter-municipal sponsorships. The Green Party cites the city of Hanau and the Main-Kinzig district as examples, where they jointly operate two vocational schools. Similar collaborations also exist in Offenbach, Fulda, and Kassel.
Let's tackle school development planning together
€130 million in the expansion of its northern vocational school center in recent years . Further planning for a central vocational school center is already underway. The Darmstadt-Dieburg district is also planning investments, for example, for the Landrat-Gruber-Schule in Dieburg .
“It is urgently necessary for the city and district to act together and not in parallel,” emphasizes Heiko Depner , spokesperson for the Darmstadt Green Party. Joint school development plans and sponsorships could better utilize existing resources and ensure the quality of education.
Skilled worker shortage also affects vocational schools
Like many other regions, Darmstadt is facing a growing shortage of skilled workers – a trend that is predicted to worsen by 2040. According to the school development plan, professions particularly affected include education, social work, IT, administration, chemistry, mechatronics , and design and production control – many of which are taught at vocational schools in Darmstadt.
Ensuring the quality of training
The Greens argue that attractive vocational schools are a key factor in securing skilled workers. This requires not only modern learning environments and specialized classrooms, but also a sufficient number of qualified teachers.
“We need joint projects with fair financial participation,” explains Hildegard Förster-Heldmann , spokesperson for the Darmstadt Green Party. It's not about responsibilities, but about reality: “Many young people from Darmstadt complete their apprenticeships in companies in the district – and vice versa.” A school association could ensure that lesson cancellations are minimized, investments are pooled, and specialized classes are organized efficiently.
(RED/GREENS)
