Revitalising lifelong learning

As part of the green transition, new jobs requiring green skills will emerge, while digitisation means that more and more jobs will necessitate digital skills. This greener and more digital society has revealed a skills shortage and the European Commission is working with stakeholders to address this skills gap. As such, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced in her 2022 State of the Union address that 2023 will be the European Year of Skills. Leyen highlighted in her address labour shortages, a lack of basic digital skills and the need to invest in 'reskilling and upskilling'. She said that in order for Europe to remain competitive now and in the future, a 'workforce with the right skills' is crucial and more emphasis must be placed on investments in professional education and upskilling, as well as efforts to attract the right skills to Europe. The goal of the European Year of Skills is to revitalise lifelong learning and is part of the EU Skills Agenda 2020-2025; a plan to assist individuals and businesses with the development of skills. Ultimately, the initiative will: promote effective and inclusive investment in training and upskilling; strengthen the relevance of skills in order to match identified gaps; match aspirations and skill sets with labour market opportunities; attract people from third countries with the skills needed by the EU; and facilitate the recognition of qualifications.