On November 21st, 2024, NES Sustainability Webinar: Training as a pillar of innovation brought together a diverse audience for a session on how education and innovation can drive sustainable development. From rural empowerment to adult upskilling and reskilling, the webinar presented a variety of innovative projects and strategies that align with sustainability goals.
The event was introduced by Almudena Muñoz, NES Coordinator, who welcomed the participants and presented the NewEcoSmart project, highlighting its vision for promoting sustainability through education and innovation. Almudena emphasised the critical role of training as a basis for tackling society’s challenges, including rural development, digital transformation and retraining the workforce.
Presented by Inês Saavedra from SHINE 2Europe, PRIORITU45 focuses on equipping individuals aged 45 and above with critical skills through a virtual soft skills training course. This initiative bridges the gap between adult education providers and businesses, fostering adaptability and supporting lifelong learning. By addressing the increasing need for adults to stay competitive in a rapidly changing job market, PRIORITY45 promotes resilience and professional growth for mid- to late-career individuals.
David Canaveira from Federação Minha Terra presented DLBC Rural, a development methodology rooted in the European LEADER approach. This initiative enables rural communities to design and implement localized strategies that drive sustainable growth. In Portugal, DLBC Rural focuses on:
- Stimulating local economies through targeted investments and support for entrepreneurship.
- Improving workforce skills and employment opportunities via vocational training programs.
- Fostering territorial cohesion while promoting equality and active citizenship.
- Safeguarding and enhancing rural heritage to ensure cultural and environmental preservation.
DLBC Rural highlights the power of bottom-up development approaches in tackling depopulation, revitalizing rural communities, and advancing long-term economic and social sustainability.
Presented by Vittorio Ripponi from CEIPES, YERAME – Youth Entrepreneurship in Rural Areas and Mediterranean Countries – seeks to empower young people in Mediterranean rural areas with entrepreneurial skills. The project equips youth with tools to establish sustainable businesses that minimize reliance on tourism, counteract depopulation, and strengthen long-term economic stability. By fostering innovation and self-reliance, YERAME addresses the critical challenge of youth unemployment in rural regions.
Covadonga Granda from CTIC presented the RURALITIES Hubs, collaborative centres that drive innovation and training in rural communities. These hubs focus on:
- Developing digital skills for improved technological adaptability.
- Promoting climate-smart business models, including precision agriculture, to address environmental challenges.
- Implementing strategies to combat depopulation and attract investment in underserved areas.
RURALITIES Hubs offer a comprehensive approach to empowering rural communities, ensuring they are equipped for the challenges of the modern world.
Carlos Chiatti presented AGE IT, an ambitious research initiative positioning Italy as a leader in ageing studies. The program explores the societal and economic impacts of ageing and aims to create an inclusive society that benefits all generations. By combining cutting-edge research with practical solutions, AGE IT seeks to improve understanding and support for ageing populations while fostering innovation in this critical field.
Following the presentations, attendees joined two breakout sessions to explore key themes:
- Training in Rural Areas: Participants discussed effective strategies for attracting and retaining learners in rural training programs, highlighting the importance of tailored approaches and community-driven engagement.
- Training Adults 45+: This session focused on identifying the most in-demand skills for individuals over 45 in today’s job market, emphasizing digital literacy, adaptability, and essential soft skills for career transitions.
The webinar closed with a collective reaffirmation of the fundamental role that education and training play in achieving sustainable development. Each project presented demonstrated how targeted investments in skills and learning can empower individuals, revitalise rural communities and drive economic innovation.