The accelerating green and digital transitions are transforming labour markets at a global scale, creating new opportunities while intensifying existing skills shortages. According to the Future of Jobs Report 2025, employers identify skill gaps as the primary barrier to business transformation, particularly in areas such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, cybersecurity, and energy-transition technologies. Although these competencies are increasingly essential for emerging job roles, many education and training systems face challenges updating curricula, accessing suitable technologies, and aligning programmes with rapidly evolving industry needs. As a result, the demand for workforce-ready talent continues to outpace the supply of graduates equipped with practical and future-oriented skills.

This round table focuses on practical models for effective education–industry collaboration that enable scalable, implementable, and sustainable approaches to green and digital skills development. Moving beyond theoretical frameworks, the session brings together educators, industry representatives, policymakers, and training experts (hybrid format) to share real-world experiences of designing and delivering impactful workforce development initiatives. These include co-created curricula, dual and apprenticeship systems, modular and micro-credential pathways, technology-enabled learning environments (remote, virtual, or smart labs, university makerspace…), employer-led academies, and rapid upskilling programmes targeting both youth and mid-career workers.

The discussion will explore how institutions and companies can jointly forecast labour-market needs, embed industry tools and smart technologies in teaching, and design assessment models that reflect real work environments. Attention will also be given to the challenges of implementation, such as funding, capacity-building, institutional coordination, and ensuring inclusiveness for diverse learner populations.

By the end of the session, participants will contribute to a shared set of actionable recommendations for strengthening the education–industry interface and preparing learners for emerging green and digital occupations. The round table aims to support the development of a resilient, future-ready workforce capable of driving innovation and sustainability in smart industry ecosystems.