Germany’s Leipzig city welcomes first Vietnamese intern group

This marks the first time that Vietnam has dispatched apprentices to Germany to train as train and bus drivers, addressing critical workforce shortages in these sectors.

The welcome ceremony was joined by Vietnamese Ambassador to Germany Vu Quang Minh along with many local officials. Under the terms of the pilot scheme, 14 apprentices will train with Leipzig's LVG, and another 14 will undergo training at St. Georg Hospital. This project stems from economic co-operation fostered by a business delegation from Leipzig to Vietnam earlier this year.

Deputy Mayor Bonew hailed the enduring relationship between Leipzig and Vietnam, particularly noting the sister city partnership with Ho Chi Minh City. He attributed the arrival of the Vietnamese trainees to numerous visits and discussions previously held between the two sides.

Meanwhile, Deputy Mayor Schülke praised the significant contributions made by Vietnamese workers to Leipzig’s economy, noting that over 30 apprentices have commenced vocational training in the city this year. This partnership not only fosters the friendship between both sides, but also boosts Leipzig’s economy over the long term through the inclusion of dynamic and skilled young apprentices.

Ambassador Minh expressed pride in the positive reception of Vietnamese workers, thereby underlining the importance of professions such as train maintenance and driving, and nursing, which are crucial to both Vietnam and Germany. He incentivized the trainees to excel in their training and careers, assuring them of the Embassy’s support in achieving their goals.

In addition to transport and health care, Vietnamese apprentices in Leipzig are receiving training in such areas as culinary arts, hospitality, and nursing.