Mr S Gwexe, First Secretary Education, proceeded with the presentation and highlighted the following: . The German dual education system had been very progressive since the re-unification of the country 21 years ago. The country was by far the leading industrialised economy of Europe, specializing specifically in auto-mobiles, mechatronics and mechanical engineering. . Germany had 600 companies that were fully operational in South Africa making it one of their biggest trading partners. . The dual education system allowed students to choose their career path in primary schooling from as early an age as 10 years. By the time students reached the age of 18 years, they would be absorbed by industries to participate in the apprenticeship programme, which is a major step to further their career. Different partners were involved in the dual system which included the state, employers and unions. . The Employers were responsible to fund the training programmes including providing employment for the student upon completion of their apprenticeship.