System of Lifelong Learning

The Future of Work in the Digital Transformation

The digital transformation poses major challenges for the German labor market. In particular, mismatch - i.e., the coexistence of a shortage of skilled workers and unemployment - is to be expected because of an intensified discrepancy between the skill profiles supplied and demanded on the labor market. To counter this, a comprehensive reform of continuing training is needed. To facilitate retraining for a change of occupation across sectors, a continuing education system based on the dual training system should be established. Such a system for lifelong learning would enable people to obtain new educational certificates with strong signals even at an advanced age. To promote widespread in-company continuing education, the sometimes confusing subsidy system should be simplified and a legal right to continuing education should be examined. Germany also needs to start a catch-up process to regain connection to the world leaders in key digital technologies.