The Swiss secondary education system is strongly based on
professional training. Around 75% of young people complete their schooling in
companies that work closely with the cantonal authorities. Over time, this
system has proven its efficiency, though it naturally has both positive and
negative aspects.
The system successfully meets its technical, professional, and
relational objectives within specific sectors. Students learn practical skills
such as repairing cars, working on farms, or providing support in hospitals, to
mention only a few professions. Apprenticeship is also an important way to
discover the realities and rules of working life in companies and services.
Looking ahead, human relations and teamwork will become more
important than ever. The ability to understand people from different cultures
and language regions will be a challenge for employees at all levels.
Adaptability and language knowledge may soon be just as vital as technical and
professional skills.
So, what can we do to help young people in training prepare for
these future requirements? Rotary clubs in our district are already engaged in
many local projects, supporting students in preparing their CVs, facing
interviews with company leaders, and assisting those who struggle to complete
their mandatory schooling.
Beyond this, we need to create opportunities for students to
connect with companies in other regions. For this purpose, the VISITE
program is an excellent tool. As our district has not yet
been very active in this outstanding program, we have introduced the MOLESON project to encourage our clubs to
participate. Spending just a few weeks in another language region can help
apprentices better meet the challenges of their future professional lives.
I would like to invite all of you to join us
at SwissSkills in Bern on the 20th of September to discuss VISITE, MOLESON, and other initiatives
that Rotary Switzerland is undertaking.
I am also pleased to welcome two new members to the District 1990
Operational Committee. François Bernard (RC Martigny) will take responsibility for District
Communication and Silvio Riva (RC Lausanne International) will
assume responsibility for District Training. This
fall, both will form a small team to share the workload. I wish François and
Silvio every success as they take on their new responsibilities.
I wish you all a wonderful autumn and look forward to meeting as
many of you as possible during my club visits!
Jouni K. Heinonen
District Governor 2025-2026
