Nicolas Schmit, the European Commissioner for Jobs and Social Rights, was in Bavaria from 28-30 June 2023, a mission that included a public discussion about the European Year of Skills. Emphasising the importance of skills development in the EU, the Commissioner visited several projects supported by the European Social Fund (ESF) that help people to build the skills they need to be competitive in technical professions. The projects also assist businesses to upskill their workforce in both technical trades and cutting-edge industries – with particular attention paid to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Implemented through Bavaria’s Chamber of Crafts, the ‘Überbetriebliche Lehrlingsunterweisung’ (inter-company apprenticeship training, or ÜLU) programme offers opportunities for young people interested in pursuing a career or entrepreneurship in craft professions. The project provides on-the-job training, extra support that has allowed the next generation to train in technical trades such as mechanics, textile design and carpentry. Supported by over €1.5 million from the European Social Fund (ESF), ÜLU courses are work-specific and practical, providing a four-year training and fully preparing participants to succeed in their chosen field. Financing is subsidised by the Federal and regional governments as well as the ESF, making the courses far more affordable.
The ‘Gestalten im Handwerk’ (Craftsmanship) project has developed a comprehensive teaching programme that helps people to build skills in form and design. Funded with over €300 000 from ESF via the Recovery Assistance for Cohesion and Territories of Europe (REACT-EU) scheme, the project highlights the importance of expanding participants’ originality and creativity, developing confidence in the use of colours and shapes, essential features of craft skills which are often overlooked as part of other artisanal training courses. The project participated in the New European Bauhaus Award 2022 and won the Consumer Award at the 2022 Universal Design Contest.
Also funded by the ESF with over €300 000 from REACT-EU, the Nuremburg-based ‘Scan4SMEs’ is a leader in component testing. The project applies cutting-edge technologies – such as X-ray scanning methods – that are increasingly in demand and is an important contributor to the development of digital, sustainable and green professional skills. Scan4SMEs works to grow the potential of SMEs across the component testing field, aiming to ensure enterprises develop an understanding of both the possibilities and limitations of these procedures. It is currently developing hands-on training seminars and a comprehensive, online course using real examples from across several industrial sectors – opportunities that will be offered free of charge.
