There are a lot of prejudices surrounding works councils, for example they are said to be controversial. Some of them have already heard “quarrelsome”. But that is quite unfair when you consider what the tasks of a works council actually are and that most people take on this position on a voluntary basis, i.e. they are not even paid for investing a lot of time and work in the interests of their colleagues and colleagues to join in.
Representation of interests and authority to enforce fair working conditions
Works councils play a crucial role in working life. Because they officially represent the interests of the workforce and ensure fair working conditions. In a working world that is becoming increasingly complex and dynamic, works councils face numerous challenges. You not only have to master the basics of labor law, but also understand economic developments and use communication skills to successfully mediate between employers and employees. In order to do justice to this demanding task, continuous training is of great importance.
Training requirements, more knowledge and proof
There are numerous further training opportunities. Employers are legally obliged to make this possible. So it’s a good prerequisite for further training in areas such as works constitution and labor law or crisis communication and mediation. A lot of good things can be achieved in companies with the newly acquired knowledge. But in many cases the person taking part can also transfer some of what they have learned into their own life. As a rule, there is confirmation of participation in such multi-day training courses in the form of a certificate as proof. But that’s not always helpful on your CV, especially if you want to change companies…
University certificate and transferable credits (ECTS) instead of confirmation of participation
What is always good, however, is a recognized certificate from a renowned university. And purchasing one is now possible! That’s why there is now a collaboration between the SRH and the WAF Institute for Works Council Training AG a new type of further training offer for works council members from which they personally benefit in the long term. After the seminar, participants can register for the exam at the SRH Distance Learning University, which can be completed online at the desired date. This exam consists of questions that are tailored precisely to the content of your seminar.
If this is passed successfully, you will receive two credits in addition to the university certificate. And these credits (ECTS points) can be recognized throughout Europe. You can also enroll in the following certificate courses or study programs. Werner Kopf, head of the SRH Academy for Interest Management and co-initiator of this cooperation: “We welcome this innovative approach to the market for further training for works councils. This is an example of the successful collaboration between Germany’s most popular distance learning university and a market-leading seminar provider.“ And Joachim Merk, Vice Rector for Studies & Teaching at the SRH Fernhochschule – The Mobile University, is also enthusiastic: “This cooperation is an important step in giving works councils access to academically certified further training. Our aim is to combine practice-oriented knowledge with academic excellence – and thus provide works councils with an even broader range of skills for their important work.“
Who is the WAF?
The WAF is one of the leading addresses when it comes to professional training for works councils, representatives of the severely disabled as well as youth and trainee representatives. With a comprehensive range of training courses, WAF imparts the practical specialist knowledge that company interest groups need in order to competently fulfill their tasks. The seminars cover a wide range of topics, from labor and company constitution issues to soft skills such as negotiation and conflict management. WAF board member Curt Rahn about the innovative further training offer with the SRH Fernhochschule: “With this unique cooperation, we are setting a milestone in the history of works council training. For the first time, works councils have the opportunity to not only acquire practical knowledge by taking part in our training courses, but also a recognized university certificate in order to further their training in a future-oriented manner.“
Advantages of the university certificate for works councils
The university certificate in combination with the WAF certificate is a strong sign of qualifications and commitment. It not only shows that the works council has in-depth specialist knowledge in specific areas, but also that it is willing to continue training. This is not only an enormous benefit for personal development, but also strengthens the position of the works council in the company. Through targeted further training in the areas of law, business and communication, a works council can be more closely involved in strategic decisions, which in turn improves career opportunities within the committee and beyond.
Win-win situation for employees and employers
With the new possibility of completing seminars with a university certificate in cooperation with the SRH Fernhochschule, the WAF is taking a further step towards the professionalization of works council work. In addition, participants have the benefit for their own personal and perhaps – soon or again – academic career. Because education is always a good investment in your (own) future.
Anyone who is responsible for the workforce as a works council should use this opportunity to further their education, act more strategically and actively shape the future of the company. We look forward to seeing you!
