ETF - European Training Foundation

As discussions unfold at the EU Social Forum, one message is clear: skills are central to Europe’s future.

In the latest episode of our interview series, the ETF Director Pilvi Torsti speaks with Manuela Geleng, Director for Jobs and Skills at the European Commission (DG EMPL), about how Europe can respond to rapidly changing labour markets.

Their conversation explores some of the key questions shaping Europe’s skills agenda today:

🔹Why skills shortages are becoming one of the most pressing challenges for European labour markets

🔹How the Union of Skills aims to better connect education and employment systems

🔹The importance of lifelong learning, with the EU target of 60% adult participation in training by 2030

🔹Why stronger cooperation between institutions, companies and social partners is essential to deliver real change

A key takeaway from the discussion: Europe’s skills challenge cannot be addressed by education or employment policy alone. It requires cooperation across systems, sectors and countries.

Watch the full episode and join the conversation on Europe’s skills future
🔗 https://youtu.be/hamblC3a_kY?is=fZ2EZo_SkvNDfqZz

The Green Skills Award is back!

We want to keep celebrating projects that transform communities and protect our planet. 🌍

Would you answer our new call? 📞

👉 Click on the link in and apply today. Don’t forget you have until March 27 to do it.

https://www.etf.europa.eu/en/news-and-events/news/green-skills-award-2026-call-applications-now-open