Harnessing Private Sector Power to Build the Workforce of Tomorrow: Driving Productivity, Decent Work and Social Justice through Skills

This discussion will focus on how the private sector can drive skills development at scale through effective skilling, upskilling, and reskilling strategies. Participants will examine industry-led approaches that enhance workforce productivity, create decent employment opportunities, and contribute to social inclusion and social justice. The session will also explore innovative partnerships in technical and vocational education and training (TVET) and lifelong learning, while highlighting practical policy measures that can strengthen private sector engagement in national skills systems. In addition, the discussion will provide an opportunity to exchange experiences and build connections among practitioners, policymakers, and business leaders working to advance workforce development globally.

Audience

Policy makers and government officials, employers’ and workers’ organisations; private sector; skills development specialists and researchers; education and training providers, and universities; development partners, banks, investors, and innovators.

Recording

Background

The world of work is changing rapidly. Automation, artificial intelligence, the green transition, and demographic shifts are transforming industries and accelerating demands for new skills. Yet, millions of young people and workers are being left behind as skills gaps widen, threatening productivity, employability, and a just transition.

Closing that gap requires stronger leadership and deeper engagement from the private sector. Businesses are not just part of the conversation; they are central to the solution. They see skills needs in real time, understand where talent shortages are emerging, and know where training systems are no longer keeping pace.

Yet in most countries, private sector engagement in skills development remains too limited. At the same time, policymakers and business leaders are actively looking for good practices that show what meaningful private sector action looks like and how it can make a real difference.

This masterclass will highlight effective models of private sector leadership, innovative partnerships that are helping to future-proof workforces, close skills gaps, and create pathways to decent work. It aims to inspire action and support more inclusive, resilient, and skills-ready labour markets.

Objectives

Participants will:

• Explore proven private sector approaches to skilling, upskilling, and reskilling at scale
• Understand how industry-led initiatives boost workforce productivity, expand decent work, and advance social justice
• Gain practical policy insights to strengthen private sector engagement in national skills systems
• Learn from innovative TVET and lifelong learning partnerships
• Connect with a global community of practitioners, policy makers, and business leaders