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The following is issued on behalf of the Legislative Council Secretariat:
The delegation of the Legislative Council Panel on Education began its duty visit in Germany yesterday (September 21) to study the vocational education in the country.
Upon arrival, the delegation visited the Hessian Institute for Advanced Training in Technology, a vocational training institution of the State of Hesse which offers technology training for teachers at vocational schools, as well as training programmes for professionals and executives in various fields. Delegation members met with Mr Martin Gonnermann, Director of the institution and received a briefing on the system of vocational training in Germany and the organisation of vocational schools.
The delegation visited Industriepark Höchst, an industrial park in Frankfurt, in the afternoon. Industriepark Höchst is one of Europe's largest research and production sites for the chemical and pharmaceutical industry. Delegation members learnt that in addition to providing infrastructure, the park operator offers vocational training and continuing education courses for nearly 22,000 employees from over 90 companies in the park.
While touring around the industrial park, delegation members had the opportunity to meet with the senior management of Provadis, a private vocational training provider, and learnt of the dual system of vocational training in Germany. They also exchanged views with the trainers and trainees on their teaching and learning experience at the industrial park.
The delegation will continue its visit in Germany today (September 22). Members will meet with the Hessian Minister of European and Federal Affairs and Members of the Hessian Parliament.
Ends/Tuesday, September 22, 2015
Issued at HKT 17:59
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