On the morning of April 16, 2025, at Meeting Room III of Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology and Education (HCMUTE), the Office of International Affairs organized a workshop introducing internship and study opportunities in the Federal Republic of Germany. This event served as an excellent opportunity for HCMUTE students to directly interact with experts from the Chamber of Skilled Crafts in Erfurt (Germany), explore scholarship and internship programs, and learn about the requirements for studying and working in Germany.
Workshop on Vocational Education and Employment in the State of Thuringia (Germany)
Representing HCMUTE at the workshop were Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chau Dinh Thanh – Vice President of HCMUTE; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le My Ha – Acting Dean of the Faculty of Electrical and Electronics Engineering; Dr. Nguyen Anh Tuan – Dean of the Faculty of Fashion and Tourism; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dang Thien Ngon – Vice Dean of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Trinh Khanh Son – Vice Dean of the Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology; M.A. Pham Bach Duong – Head of Office of International Affairs ; and M.A. Nguyen Thoi – Deputy Head of Office of International Affairs.
From the Chamber of Skilled Crafts in Erfurt, the delegation included Mr. Thomas Malcherek – Managing Director; Mr. Stefan Lobenstein – Chairman; Ms. Magdalena Szypa-Raabe – Vocational Education Expert; and Ms. Nguyen Hang Nga – CRAFT Project Consultant. The workshop also welcomed a large number of HCMUTE students interested in studying and working in Germany.
HCMUTE leadership, Erfurt representatives, and students at the workshop
In his opening speech, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chau Dinh Thanh – Vice President of HCMUTE – stated:
"HCMUTE takes pride in its long-standing and sustainable partnership with Germany over the past 60 years. We firmly believe that through this continued collaboration, the learning and internship opportunities in Germany will bring invaluable benefits, helping our students prepare a solid foundation for their future careers."
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chau Dinh Thanh delivered his remarks at the workshop
Mr. Thomas Malcherek, Managing Director of the Chamber of Skilled Crafts in Erfurt, expressed:
"We are honored to participate in this workshop. Germany highly values the diligence and creativity of Vietnamese workers. HCMUTE students, with their impressive capabilities and eagerness to learn, always leave a lasting impression. We are committed to continuing our collaboration and offering quality internship and learning opportunities in Germany."
Mr. Thomas Malcherek speaking at the workshop
During the event, Ms. Magdalena Szypa-Raabe – Vocational Education Expert – introduced the dual training model in Germany, which lasts from 2 to 3.5 years and consists of 30% theoretical study and 70% practical training in companies. Students not only attend classes but also actively participate in professional activities and production processes at partner companies. This model helps students enhance their professional skills and problem-solving capabilities effectively.
Ms. Magdalena Szypa-Raabe shared the dual vocational training model at the workshop
Furthermore, HCMUTE students also have the chance to apply for study-abroad scholarships, join vocational training courses, and pursue career development in Germany – especially in the state of Thuringia, which is home to numerous educational institutions and major companies in collaboration with the Chamber of Skilled Crafts in Erfurt, thus offering abundant educational and career opportunities.
Students asking questions at the workshop
Participating in internships and study programs in Germany brings practical benefits to HCMUTE students, including expanding international networks, improving work capacity, and enhancing adaptability to multicultural environments. Upon completing their internships, students will have greater employment opportunities in German or international companies, thanks to their solid knowledge base and rich practical experience.
Notably, HCMUTE plans to open a German language training center this year to meet the growing demand among students wishing to study and work in Germany. This strategic move is highly meaningful, as there is currently no specialized German language training center in Thu Duc City. The establishment of this center will provide HCMUTE students with structured access to the German language and culture, thereby enhancing the quality of preparation for their international integration journey.
About the Chamber of Skilled Crafts in Erfurt (HWK Erfurt)
The Chamber of Skilled Crafts in Erfurt (German: Handwerkskammer Erfurt – HWK Erfurt) is a specialized organization responsible for vocational training and skills development for the workforce in the fields of craftsmanship and engineering in the state of Thuringia, Germany. HWK Erfurt plays an important role in supporting small and medium-sized enterprises in sectors such as mechanics, electronics, construction, and technical services.