The publication „Meeting skill needs for the green transition: Skills anticipation and VET for a greener future“ (2025) by Cedefop and UNESCO-UNEVOC serves as a practical guide on how Vocational Education and Training (VET) can support the green transition through effective skills intelligence and governance. It highlights the importance of anticipating future skill demands and engaging diverse stakeholders to align training systems with the evolving needs of a sustainable economy. The guide showcases various VET mechanisms like apprenticeships, upskilling, reskilling, microcredentials, and validation of prior learning, supported by real-world examples from Europe and beyond.
Central to the guide is the concept of skills anticipation and intelligence, which involves analysing current and future labour market needs to identify green skills gaps. It presents methods such as skills forecasts, foresights, surveys, graduate tracking, and big data analysis to capture trends in green jobs and skills. The publication acknowledges the challenge of defining “green” skills but emphasizes that the combination of technical skills and transversal skills is necessary across occupations.
The guide stresses smart skills governance, promoting collaboration among governments, employers, training providers, and social partners at all levels to translate skills intelligence into effective VET policies and practices. Apprenticeships are highlighted for their responsiveness to labour market demands, while upskilling and reskilling adults are deemed essential to address immediate green skill shortages. Microcredentials and validation of informal learning offer flexible, accessible pathways to support lifelong learning and workforce transitions in the green economy.
Finally, the publication underscores the role of Artificial Intelligence in enhancing VET for the green transition, helping with skills anticipation, curriculum updates, personalized learning, and career guidance. AI tools can assist educators in creating engaging, relevant training experiences and support learners by tailoring education to individual needs and emerging labour market opportunities, ensuring VET remains adaptive and effective in fostering a greener future.