Under the banner of the new vocational training regulations: graduation ceremony for Eastern Switzerland
In a relaxed and cheerful mood, the newly qualified opticians, parents and guests gathered on two evenings in the best weather at the wonderfully situated Klein Rigi restaurant, which offers an impressive view over the foothills of the Alps.
On the first evening, the graduates of the four-year examination were invited, on the second evening those of the new three-year training.
In his speech, Damian Eggler, President of the Opticians of Eastern Switzerland, emphasized the courage to change existing processes. The willingness to change something once in a while helps the profession move forward.
What he meant on a small scale, in everyday life, became a professional reality at these celebrations. Opticians trained for three years will now shape the profession.
It will gradually become clear whether this will make the profession more attractive, whether more young people, especially men, will be interested in it and whether they will be able and willing to overcome the hurdles of the vocational baccalaureate and the university of applied sciences.
Demanding challenge for the team of experts
Chief expert Debora Hummel, who had to tackle a titanic task this year with her team of experts with two different examination regulations, was able to report pleasingly positive results.
In the four-year apprenticeship, 31 out of 34 apprentices were successful. 28 women and three men were among the lucky graduates. The best overall grade of 5.3 was achieved by Marielle Bischof, Fielmann Buchs; Olivia Gut, Brillehus Diethelm, Teufen and Melanie Keller, Adler Optik, Flawil.
33 apprentices completed the three-year apprenticeship. 32 were successful. 26 women and 7 men.
The best overall marks were achieved by Julia Arnold, Augenoptik Ott, Wattwil, with 5.8; Lorena Albert with 5.4 and Angelika Schnyder, both from the training company Sichtbar Optik, Bad Ragaz, with 5.2.
The official ceremony and the subsequent aperitif on the sun terrace were accompanied by Jacky's Jazzcritters trio.
Thanks to the sponsors, the newly qualified opticians received special appreciation in the form of gifts. The organizers would like to thank the companies "Design Eyewear Group", Rodenstock, Hoya, Eyetech and JF Rey.
