Collaboration with the Global South

BGZ’s roots lie in development cooperation—our work began over 40 years ago with vocational education projects in Turkey. This form of international collaboration remains a key focus of our organisation. Our projects are centered on the qualification, training, and further education of young people in partner countries. To ensure our initiatives are practical and locally relevant, we work closely with partner organisations that define thematic priorities and target groups based on local needs. Our preferred partners are organisations from Berlin’s twin cities and districts, fostering a direct exchange and strengthening cultural and economic ties between Berlin and the partner countries.

Through these projects, we contribute to enhancing local economic prospects. By providing targeted training and upskilling programs, young people can improve their employment opportunities and lay the foundation for economic stability. Additionally, we address skilled labour shortages in Berlin’s craft and trade sectors. For example, we develop recruitment models to attract skilled workers from non-European countries for vocational training or direct entry into the labour market, ensuring successful integration through accompanying support programs.