This is the European Year of Skills!

People’s skills are everyone’s business, that is the message of the European Year of Skills.

The European Union traditionally has the most competitive workforce in the world but the green and digital transitions push us to constantly invest in re-skilling and upskilling. Labour markets and education systems need to be updated to allow workers to prepare for and adapt to a continuously changing environment.

Because in today’s economy, tradition doesn’t count for much. Labour shortages in key sectors have doubled between 2015 and 2021. One out of three workers lack basic digital skills. We have to raise our game together.

Starting on May 9, the European Year of Skills will raise awareness on matching people’s aspirations with job opportunities, promote investment in high-skilled staff, and bring together everyone —workers, social partners and employers— to improve our skill sets for the green and digital economy.

Renew Europe group shadow MEP Sylvie Brunet (France, Mouvement Démocrate), says: ‘The EU will stay competitive only if the Union includes all its citizens, with affordable and accessible programs to upskill and re-skill its workforce. Special attention must be given to retain more older workers in the labour market and to encourage more women to engage in STEM careers. Making mobility programs really accessible to vulnerable groups will also contribute to the achievement of a truly inclusive European Year of Skills.’

MEP Dragoş Pîslaru, chair of the Epmloyment and Social Affairs committee (Romania, Reînnoim Proiectul European al României), adds: ‘The European Year of Skills is a timely reminder of the crucial role that education and training play in equipping individuals with the skills they need to thrive in an ever-changing labour market. It is an opportunity to ensure that every individual, regardless of their background or circumstances, has access to quality education and training, unlocking their full potential and building sustainable, peaceful, and resilient societies.’