ILO’s Skills Bridge Master Class – Episode 12

International Labour Organization (ILO) to organize Episode 12 of Masterclass Series “The Skills Bridge” on the theme

Future-ready skills policy:
Low-income and Middle-income countries pathways to growth, social justice and employment

This high-level roundtable aims to convene leading international experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to share experiences, insights, and lessons learned in overcoming both perennial and emerging challenges in skills development systems.

Background:

In today’s rapidly evolving global economy, the nature of work is undergoing profound transformation, driven by technological innovation, climate change, shifting trade dynamics, and demographic transitions. As industries adapt, so must the workforce. Yet, a widening skills gap threatens economic growth, employability, and innovation across the globe. 

While all countries face challenges in aligning education and training systems with changing labour market needs, low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are disproportionately affected. These countries grapple not only with emerging demands—such as digital and green skills—but also with long-standing systemic issues: underfunded education systems, weak industry linkages, outdated curricula and infrastructure, and shortages of qualified trainers. 

The statistics are stark: 

• Youth unemployment globally stands at 16%, with nearly one in four young people not in education, employment, or training (NEET).
• Public investment in TVET averages less than 0.2% of GDP, resulting in outdated facilities and limited capacity.
• Formal TVET access in many LMICs is below 25%, compared to 68% in OECD countries.
• Rapid growth of workforce in LMICs, especially Africa (85% of global workforce increase by 2035).
• Low enrolment in TVET (e.g. ~6% of secondary students in Africa; rural & female youth are underserved). 

Speakers:

• Oliver Diehl, Deputy Head of Division in Vocational Education and Training at the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research
• Simon McGrath, Professor of Education at the University of Glasgow
• Glenda Quintini, Head of Skills and Future Readiness Division, OECD
• Pawan Bhageria, President HR, IT and Admin and Education at Tata technologies
• Manuela Prina, Principal education specialist at Asian Development Bank
• Nicholas Ouma, Senior youth advisor at African Union Commission
• Ashwin K. Arunachalam, Senior Consultant in digital infrastructure, Turner & Townsend
• Ntshangase Nokuthula, Youth Representative, South Africa
• Ashwani Aggarwal, Head of Skills Policy and Governance, ILO

Who should attend?

• Policy makers and government officials,
• Employers and workers organisation,
• Skills and research institutions,
• Private sector leaders and experts,
• Education and training providers, academia,
• Development partners and banks,
• Investors & innovators