Today in Berlin, the Federal Employment Agency (BA) and the German Rectors’ Conference (HRK) agreed to strengthen sustainably academic and career counselling through even closer collaboration. Both partners have signed a cooperation agreement to expand their collaboration in advising prospective and current students as well as graduates. The aim of this cooperation is to make it easier for young people to access high-quality and coordinated counselling services on educational and career paths. Its purpose to provide guidance and support, particularly in the transition between school, university and work, which is often perceived as challenging. Coordinated information and individual support can ease the process of deciding on educational and career paths.
The cooperation is a response to current social and economic changes: Digitalisation, artificial intelligence, sustainability and demographic change are bringing profound changes to job profiles and qualification requirements. At the same time, the demand for qualified specialists and flexible educational pathways is growing. The complementary or joint counselling and support services are aimed at maximising educational attainment, securing suitable employment and promoting personal development. BA and HRK are therefore advocating closer cooperation between employment agencies and universities and, on this basis, also want to encourage further regional and local cooperation with other stakeholders in educational and career counselling. The specific details will be agreed upon at the local level.
“Many students are already familiar with our careers advice service from their school days. Our counsellors are also there for them during their studies if they need that,” said Andrea Nahles, Chairwoman of the Executive Board of the Federal Employment Agency. ”The fact that career guidance can be integrated into university structures illustrates the growing permeability and equivalence of vocational and academic education.”
Professor Walter Rosenthal, President of the German Rectors’ Conference, explained: “Universities have a key responsibility in supporting students and prospective students on their educational path and offering a wide range of prospects for their professional future. The cooperation with the Federal Employment Agency strengthens this role as it complements the range of own academic advisory services offered. This collaboration means that prospective and current students can receive even better and more targeted support.”
