Apprentice Parliament 2025: Wels 3 strengthens political awareness in Vienna!

Apprentice Parliament 2025: Wels 3 strengthens political awareness in Vienna!

At the end of May an exciting event took place in the Austrian Parliament in Vienna - this Apprentice Parliament 2025. A 13-person delegation from the Wels 3 vocational school took part in this important event, which was entirely dedicated to actively shaping democratic processes. The journey began at Wels main train station and took the committed apprentices to spend the night in the Brigittenau youth hostel.

The program of the parliamentary meeting offered participants the opportunity not only to gain theoretical knowledge about democracy, but also to experience it practically. The first day began with a ceremonial entry into parliament and a welcome by the first President of the National Council. Among other things, the program included:Finding a club, which served as the first step in forming political opinions. During a tour of the impressive parliament building, the apprentices were given a deep insight into the history of Austrian democracy.

Experience political work up close

As the apprentice parliament progressed, the focus was increasingly on political work. Current social issues were discussed and proposals were formulated in effectively organized club meetings and committees. Working with real parliamentarians was a special highlight for many participants. At the end of the event, the apprentices proudly posed for a group photo in the venerable plenary hall.

One goal of this meeting was to promote understanding of democratic processes and to underline the importance of active participation. The participants returned to Upper Austria with a strengthened political awareness. They will pass on their experiences and inform their classmates about the importance of political participation.

Modern apprentice forum in a parliamentary environment

In this context it is Apprentice forum of Parliament is a valuable addition. It offers committed young people an insight into the legislative process and the people involved, such as members of the National Council and members of the Federal Council. At the workshops, apprentices can receive answers to numerous questions about the creation of laws and political actors. There is also the opportunity to participate in ONLINE apprentice forums from the classroom or from the company.

The formats range from “ONLINE Apprentice Forum – Parliament”, to “ONLINE Apprentice Forum – Democracy” and “ONLINE Apprentice Forum – Politicians”. All you need to participate is a PC or laptop capable of video conferencing and other devices with a webcam, microphone and loudspeaker. The first bookings for the workshops in the 2023/24 school year are already possible.

Strengthen democracy education for young people

Further attention is paid to democracy education for young people through the accompanying scientific study in the competence network “Democracy Education in Adolescence”. This study examines the active participation of young people in democracy education projects. The results show that young people need support, recognition and appreciation for their participation. The authors, including professors from renowned universities, provide seven basic recommendations for action to further improve democracy education.

Offers such as the apprentice parliament and the apprentice forum strengthen the democratic culture in Austria. The participation of young people in political processes is crucial for the future of our democracy. Not only is learning about the processes important, but also active participation - because democracy thrives on the participation of all citizens.