“European Year of Skills – What Comes Next?” Closing Event

The closing event of the European Year of Skills, titled “What Comes Next?”, will take place on April 30, 2024, at THE EGG Brussels and will also be accessible online. This significant conference will serve as a culmination of the year’s efforts, bringing together hundreds of stakeholders to reflect on the achievements and chart future directions for skill development in Europe.

Key Features of the Event:

• Opening Speech Will be delivered by Margrethe Vestager, the Executive Vice President of the European Commission, who will set a visionary tone for a Europe fit for the Digital Age.
• Panel Discussions Will feature a diverse array of speakers including national coordinators and industry experts who will engage in dialogues about the evolution and implementation of skills policies across the EU.
• Spotlight Sessions Will highlight successful initiatives such as the ‘Pact for Skills’ and the vital roles of EU agencies such as the European Training Foundation (ETF) and Cedefop in driving skills development.
• Interactive Discussions Will cover critical topics such as upskilling and reskilling strategies, smarter use of skills intelligence, and innovative solutions for addressing skills shortages in various sectors.
• Closing Remarks Will be provided by Nicolas Schmit, European Commissioner for Jobs and Social Rights, who will encapsulate the event’s insights and reaffirm the commitment to continuous skills advancement in Europe.

Impact and Outreach:

The event is set to celebrate the successes of the European Year of Skills and will also lay the groundwork for ongoing efforts to enhance skills policies. It will provide a forum for the exchange of best practices and innovative ideas, ensuring that skills remain a top priority in Europe’s agenda. The discussions will underscore the necessity of a collaborative approach involving public-private partnerships to meet the evolving needs of the European workforce.

Invitation for Continued Engagement:

Participants and stakeholders are encouraged to maintain momentum by engaging in upcoming initiatives and continuing to advocate for robust skills development strategies. The event will emphasize the importance of skills in navigating the green and digital transitions, highlighting the essential role of education and training in achieving a resilient and competitive Europe.

The conference not only serves as a platform to reflect on past achievements but also as a springboard for future initiatives. With Skills4Retail at the forefront of this transformation, we are gearing up to continue our mission well beyond the European Year of Skills. Join us to be a part of this exciting journey and help shape a resilient and skilled workforce that will drive Europe’s retail sectors to new heights. Find out more about out pledge here.

This summary previews an important gathering that will shape the trajectory for skills development in Europe. For more details, visit the official event page or access the digital agenda and recordings online.