The main goal of our project was to enhance the accessibility, quality, and long-term sustainability of dual vocational education and training (VET) in Austria and Germany, especially for socially disadvantaged youth. We aimed to reduce dropout rates and support smoother transitions into and through apprenticeships by promoting an inclusive training culture that acknowledges young people’s diverse life situations and values. A key focus was to help companies adapt their training practices to the expectations of Generation Z – particularly in terms of recognition, motivation, and communication. To this end, we developed scientifically grounded, practice-oriented materials such as a brochure and educational videos for trainers. By engaging with the sociological concept of recognition, we aimed to strengthen relationships between apprentices and training providers and to support a more attractive, equitable VET system for the future.
We applied for the Erasmus+ project "Gen Z-Kult – Appreciative Company Training Culture for Generation Z" in response to pressing structural and pedagogical challenges within the dual vocational education and training systems in Austria and Germany. Our motivation arose from a growing mismatch between the expectations of Gen Z and the traditional structures of company-based training – particularly in the context of declining apprenticeship uptake, high dropout rates, and the underrepresentation of socially disadvantaged youth. The project aimed to address these challenges: First, by supporting companies in adapting their training strategies and organizational cultures to the values and realities of today’s youth – including diversity, participation, and work-life balance. Second, by empowering young people through pedagogical approaches that emphasize recognition, appreciation, and inclusion. Drawing on theoretical frameworks such as Axel Honneth’s recognition theory, we explored how emotional, legal, and social forms of recognition can strengthen motivation, identity, and belonging. Our goal was to contribute both conceptually and practically to the renewal of the dual VET system,making it more attractive and sustainable.