Amid the 2024 enrollment craze, vocational study abroad has gained considerable attention from students and parents alike, alongside the pursuit of suitable university programs. Key advantages include abundant job opportunities, internationally recognized qualifications, and lower costs compared to traditional university paths.
Vocational Study Abroad: Hands-on Learning, Immediate Employment
While many students are busy preparing for the 2024 National High School Exam and exploring university and college admissions options, a significant number are aiming to merely pass the exam to graduate, having already decided to pursue vocational study abroad. This educational path is no longer unfamiliar. Many young people find university education time-consuming and costly, often leading to job mismatches or unemployment after graduation.
Consequently, shifting toward vocational study abroad is a choice embraced by many even while still in school. “My academic ability is decent, so I could attend university, but it would be challenging. I might spend 3-4 years studying only to face unemployment upon graduation. Many graduates end up doing unrelated jobs like being a delivery driver or ride-share operator while waiting for employment. Although this depends on individual capability, I fear ending up in that situation,” shares Vuong Dinh Tu, a 12th-grade student at Hung Dao High School, Tu Ky, Hai Duong. “That’s why I decided to pursue vocational study abroad in culinary arts in Germany after high school.”
Sharing a similar viewpoint, Nguyen Viet Ha, a 12th-grade student at Tu Ky High School, Hai Duong, notes: “University requires significant perseverance and effort. For the National High School Graduation Exam, I aim only to pass without additional pressure. Vocational study abroad is currently a trend, with many classmates studying in both Europe and Asia. Personally, I am interested in nursing, and I plan to study this field in Europe. There, I will receive in-depth training, ample practical experience, and full benefits, including free housing and a salary to support my living expenses.”
Numerous Opportunities with Vocational Study Abroad
Discussing the current trend of vocational study abroad, Ms. Le Thi Dieu Linh, CEO of German Greatway Group, states, “Vocational study abroad is becoming a popular direction for many young people. Unlike labor export, vocational study abroad demands more, with most students choosing a lifelong career. The criteria for participating in vocational study abroad programs are also stricter compared to labor export to other countries. For vocational study in Germany, students need a high school diploma and a minimum B1-level German language certificate.”
Vocational Study Abroad: Hands-on Learning, Immediate Employment
While many students are busy preparing for the 2024 National High School Exam and exploring university and college admissions options, a significant number are aiming to merely pass the exam to graduate, having already decided to pursue vocational study abroad. This educational path is no longer unfamiliar. Many young people find university education time-consuming and costly, often leading to job mismatches or unemployment after graduation.
Upon meeting these prerequisites, students can engage in a structured work-study program at leading vocational schools and enterprises globally. The program lasts 2 to 3.5 years, with 30% theoretical training (tuition-free) and 70% practical training (paid). This approach enables students to gain hands-on experience, allowing them to enter the workforce confidently without an adjustment period.
“In Germany, a vocational qualification is a testament to a student’s abilities, which is why German vocational certificates are recognized worldwide,” Ms. Linh explains.
Vocational Study Abroad in Germany: A Hot Trend
Elaborating on popular fields, Ms. Linh notes, “Vocational study abroad in Germany has been of interest to many young Vietnamese for a while, but it has only become a significant trend in the past two years. Facing an aging population, Germany is experiencing a severe labor shortage, particularly in skilled and specialized professions such as healthcare and technology. Popular fields in Germany’s vocational study market include nursing, dental assistance, retail, mechanical engineering, and hospitality management. Meeting the language requirement and having a high school diploma offers a pathway to a stable job, high salary, and permanent residency in this leading European country.”
Experts note that Vietnamese students studying vocational programs are known for their hard work and adaptability to new living and working environments. However, most face language barriers, limiting opportunities compared to students from other Asian countries.
(References: dantri.com.vn)
