Shortage of Skilled Workers in the Pharmaceutical Industry

The pharmaceutical sector is experiencing a significant shortage of skilled professionals, exacerbated by its high proportion of graduates compared to other industries. A recent study conducted by an association representing 46 industry companies highlights that despite an increasing number of international students, the supply of graduates is insufficient to meet the growing demands of research-intensive industries.

In Germany, the total number of students is approximately three million. However, the upward trend observed until 2020 has stalled, leading to a decline in student numbers. Concurrently, a substantial number of experienced workers are retiring, further exacerbating the issue. It is estimated that around 280,000 graduates in the manufacturing sector will reach retirement age within the next decade.

The pharmaceutical industry, with 34.5% of its workforce holding academic degrees, is particularly affected by this trend. This percentage is comparable to the electrical sector, while the automotive industry follows with about 25%. Outside of manufacturing, the highest ratio of graduates is found in IT services, at around 49%.

According to Claus Michelsen, chief economist of the VFA (Association of Research-Based Pharmaceutical Companies), the lack of new talent is not just a temporary issue but a structural one. He warns that without decisive reforms, Germany risks falling behind in the global competition for skilled professionals.

A comprehensive strategy to address the skilled labor shortage is deemed essential. This strategy should include incentives for students pursuing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields and facilitate targeted immigration of skilled workers. Michelsen emphasizes the need for reducing bureaucratic barriers and improving conditions for the retention of international students.

In related news, the pharmaceutical industry is also advocating for a growth-oriented economic policy in light of the upcoming federal elections. The VFA is calling for investments to reverse the downward trend in the industry. Additionally, recent structural changes in legislation have led to calls for leveraging 'opportunity spaces' to address ongoing financial struggles faced by pharmacies.

Furthermore, two new pharmaceutical research centers have recently commenced operations at the universities of Erlangen-Nuremberg and Halle-Wittenberg, aiming to bolster research efforts in this critical sector.