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Schleswig-Holstein’s Apprenticeship Crisis: 2,200 Jobs Left Unfilled Amid Youth Search

Thousands of training spots sit empty while youth hunt for jobs. Can better career advice fix Schleswig-Holstein’s growing skills mismatch?

In this image there is a toy train.
In this image there is a toy train.

Schleswig-Holstein faces a mismatch in its apprenticeship market this year. While around 2,200 company-based training positions remain vacant, an equal number of young people are still searching for opportunities. Experts are now calling for better career guidance to bridge the gap.

By the October 31 cutoff, the Schleswig-Holstein Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IHK) recorded 8,710 new training contracts in IHK-regulated professions. This figure marks a slight drop of 321 compared to the previous year. Meanwhile, the Chamber of Skilled Crafts reported 6,368 new apprenticeship agreements—roughly the same as 2024.

Across the region, businesses have listed 16,900 apprenticeship openings, but only 14,800 applicants have come forward. The imbalance has led to calls for action. Franziska Leupelt, Vice President of the IHK, stressed the need for more young people to consider vocational training and for improved career advice.

Ralf Stamer, President of the Chamber of Skilled Crafts, also urged young people to explore the skilled trades. He highlighted the sector’s diverse opportunities and openness to candidates from all backgrounds. The North Regional Directorate of the Federal Employment Agency echoed this sentiment, noting strong employer commitment to vocational training.

Despite the challenges, businesses in Schleswig-Holstein continue to invest in apprenticeships. With thousands of positions still available, efforts are now focused on matching applicants to openings. The push for better career guidance aims to ensure more young people find suitable training paths.

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