ILO at the WorldSkills Conference 2024: Shaping the Future of Skills and Work

September 2024 – Geneva: The International Labour Organization (ILO) was proud to be a coalition partner of the WorldSkills Conference 2024, a pivotal event that brought together global leaders, educators, policymakers, and young professionals to address the evolving landscape of skills development. This year’s conference, held in Lyon - France, focused on the critical role of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in driving sustainable economic growth and fostering social inclusion amid rapid technological and environmental changes. 

The Purpose of the Conference 

The WorldSkills Conference 2024 served as a catalyst for global discussions on the future of work, emphasizing the need for skills and training systems to adapt to significant technological advancements, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), and the increasing emphasis on green economies. The event aimed to inspire collaboration and innovation among stakeholders, ensuring that education systems and labour markets are equipped to meet the demands of tomorrow's workforce. 

ILO’s Role in Advancing the Global Skills Agenda 

As a leading authority on labour standards, employment, and social protection, the ILO’s involvement in the WorldSkills Conference underscored its commitment to promoting decent work and inclusive growth. The ILO’s participation aligned with its broader mission to ensure that individuals worldwide have the opportunity to acquire the skills necessary for decent work, especially in the context of global challenges such as climate change and digital transformation. 

Throughout the conference, the ILO emphasized the importance of elevating TVET on the global agenda. The organization advocated for greater recognition of TVET as a key driver for economic development, urging policymakers and educators to prioritize the integration of TVET into national and international strategies. 

Highlighting ILO’s Contributions and Speakers 

The ILO’s contribution to the conference was marked by insightful presentations from several of its distinguished representatives: 

Mia Seppo, Assistant Director-General for Job Creation and Enterprise Development, highlighted the need for stronger collaboration between businesses and governments to create sustainable and inclusive job opportunities. Her presentation focused on how TVET can bridge the gap between education and employment, ensuring that the workforce is prepared for the jobs of the future. 

Srinivas B. Reddy, Chief of the Skills and Employability Branch, discussed strategies for aligning TVET with labour market demands. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that workers are equipped with the necessary skills to thrive in rapidly evolving industries, particularly those impacted by digitalization and automation. 

Olga Strietska-Ilina, Senior Skills and Employability Specialist, explored the future of work in the context of AI and digital transformation. Her session focused on how education systems can adapt to these technological changes, preparing the next generation of workers for a dynamic and unpredictable job market. 

Ashwani Aggarwal, Senior Technical Specialist in Employment Services, addressed the challenges and opportunities of integrating informal skills into formal labour markets. He highlighted innovative approaches to skills recognition, which are crucial for including marginalized groups in the workforce. 

Christine Hofmann, Technical Specialist in Skills for Social Inclusion, discussed the role of skills development in promoting social inclusion and reducing inequalities. Her insights emphasized the importance of ensuring that vulnerable populations are not left behind in the transition to a greener, more digital economy. 

Driving Global Change Through Skills Development 

The ILO’s active participation in the WorldSkills Conference 2024 reinforces its dedication to advancing the global skills agenda. By advocating for the elevation of TVET and the recognition of diverse forms of skills and learning, the ILO is helping to shape a future where all individuals have the opportunity to succeed in a rapidly changing world. 

As the conference concluded, the ILO called on all stakeholders to continue the conversation and take action. By working together, we can ensure that TVET remains at the forefront of global development strategies, driving sustainable growth and fostering inclusive societies. 

Join the Movement 

The ILO invites all stakeholders to join in this critical effort. By prioritizing skills development and recognizing the value of both formal and informal learning, we can create a more equitable and prosperous future for all.