You’re Invited to the European Year of Skills: The Catalyst for Sustainable Urban Development
Europe is at a crossroads. The challenge of building resilient, sustainable cities that can withstand the test of time and adapt to changing environmental, economic, and social landscapes is no small feat. Enter the European Year of Skills (EYS) – an initiative to address the skills gaps in the European Union and turbocharge the EU skills strategy. With a strong focus on digital and green technology skills, this initiative hopes to be a game-changer for European cities.
What do the stats say?
The numbers are pretty telling. According to the EU, around 77% of European companies are struggling to find workers with the right skills. But there are some ambitious goals ahead. By 2030, the EU hopes to have 20 million Information and Communication Technology specialists trained and employed. Furthermore, the aim is to get 60% of adults into annual training sessions by the same deadline. These stats highlight our current challenges and the big opportunities we could tap into with the right focus on skills and training.
Skills: The Bedrock of Smart Cities
Urban development specialists have long understood that a city's success isn't solely determined by its infrastructure but by its inhabitants. It is the combination of their skills, expertise, and aspirations that breathe life into urban spaces. With the European Year of Skills emphasising the significance of training and upskilling, we have an opportunity to lay a solid foundation for the cities of tomorrow.
Incorporating digital and green technology skills into the urban workforce means that our cities will be equipped to implement innovative solutions, from efficient energy management systems to digital platforms that make city services more accessible. These skills can catalyse the creation of new industries, paving the way for sustainable economic growth.
Ensuring Employability and Sustainable Growth
A city's economic vibrancy requires a workforce whose skills align with the needs of employers. By collaborating closely with social partners and companies, EYS aims to ensure this alignment, driving growth and ensuring long-term employability. As we transition towards a greener and more digital economy, it's imperative that the job market reflects these shifts. Matching individual aspirations and skill sets with the emerging opportunities in these sectors is not just about economic recovery; it's about reimagining the future of work in European cities.
Inviting Global Talent
With an eye on the future, the EYS also recognises the importance of attracting talent outside the EU. By doing so, European cities can become melting pots of global expertise, bringing together diverse perspectives and skills to drive innovation and creative problem-solving.
Get Involved, Shape the Future
While the European Commission, Parliament, and various stakeholders will be at the forefront of this initiative, the real success of the European Year of Skills lies in the hands of its citizens. By participating in events, debates, and skills-related activities, each individual has the power to shape the trajectory of this initiative.
The EU is supporting events, debates, and skills related activities in Europe that are in line with the year’s objectives. You can add yours to the map by filling in this form. Make sure to use the logo and communication materials.
Use #EuropeanYearOfSkills to share your stories, aspirations, and visions for the cities of the future. Let's celebrate the skills that will build them, foster collaborations that will strengthen them, and nurture the innovations that will define them.
