Rheinland-Pfalz apprentices report declining satisfaction levels

A survey by the German Trade Union Confederation (DGB) reveals declining satisfaction among apprentices in Rheinland-Pfalz. Only 64 percent of approximately 1,000 respondents reported being satisfied or very satisfied with their training, marking the second-lowest value since the DGB apprentice report began in 2012.

Key issues cited include poor mental health, exhaustion, and the urge to abandon training. DGB state chair Susanne Wingertszahn noted that stressors such as long commutes, excessive working hours, insufficient compensation, and a lack of recovery time contribute to these challenges. Furthermore, apprentices in smaller companies often lack designated contacts to discuss psychological burdens.

To improve the attractiveness of vocational training, Wingertszahn called for qualified training personnel, predictable working hours, adequate pay, and affordable housing. She also proposed the creation of a training fund supported by company contributions and suggested measures such as an apprentice transit ticket and a housing offensive for trainees.