Shortage of skilled workers in SH: This is how universities fight against dropouts!

Shortage of skilled workers in SH: This is how universities fight against dropouts!

There is a tense situation on the labor market in Schleswig-Holstein, particularly in the areas of software development and electrical engineering. While the country is desperately looking for skilled workers, current statistics show that around 16% of international bachelor's students drop out of their studies in the first semester. This dropout rate is worrying, especially since universities in Schleswig-Holstein have the lowest proportion in Germany with only 4,800 international students. As NDR reports, the dropout rate for international Bachelor students is between 15 and 16%, while for their German fellow students this rate is around 13%.

What are the reasons for this high dropout rate? International students face numerous challenges, such as bureaucracy, difficulties finding accommodation and language barriers. The lack of affordable housing in particular contributes to dissatisfaction, which has a negative impact on student satisfaction and ultimately on the dropout rate. To address this issue, some universities are planning to offer support in the form of language courses and integration projects. An interesting example is the Lübeck University of Technology, which would like to integrate German courses as compulsory modules into the bachelor's degree program in electrical engineering.

Integration of international students

The integration of international students into the German labor market can play a key role in the fight against the shortage of skilled workers. According to a DAAD study that surveyed 21,000 international students at 132 universities, two thirds of those surveyed plan to stay in Germany after graduating. Many people are thinking about starting a business, especially in the areas of business, engineering and IT. However, the challenges should not be underestimated, as only a third feel well prepared to start their career. The Association Office emphasizes that more intensive support through career services and language courses is required to improve these preparations.

A positive aspect is that the number of international students in Germany continues to increase. Around 402,000 international students were enrolled in the 2024/25 winter semester, which corresponds to an increase of around six percent compared to the previous year. Over 50% of these students have chosen engineering and natural sciences, which underlines the inclination to supply skilled workers. Many universities are specifically focusing on expanding career and qualification offerings, which could have a positive effect on retention rates. DAAD reports a possible retention rate of 40 percent, which could generate around 16 billion euros net in taxes and social contributions.

But it's not just the shortage of skilled workers that is causing problems for universities. The fact that 12,430 new students started their studies at universities in Schleswig-Holstein in the winter semester of 2025 also illustrates the increase in the number of applicants for education in the region, which at the same time increases the pressure on the existing infrastructure. Against this background, it is particularly important not only to attract new students, but also to provide them with the best possible support in order to continue to be considered an attractive destination for education and skilled workers in the future.