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Masterclass series “The skills bridge” - Episode 11

How can the private sector drive skills development and lifelong learning?

© Mikhail Nilov / Pexels

In a rapidly evolving global economy, work is transforming at an unprecedented pace, driven by technological advancements, climate change, and demographic shifts. As industries adapt, so must the workforce—but the widening skills gap threatens economic growth, employability, and innovation. Addressing this challenge requires a renewed focus on skills development and lifelong learning, ensuring individuals remain employable, and businesses thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Collaboration is key. Governments, social partners and training institutions play a crucial role, but the private sector holds the key to real-world insights—knowing first-hand which skills are in demand and how to equip workers with them. Their engagement is not just beneficial but essential in designing relevant, effective training programs that meet industry needs.

This masterclass will bring together leading experts, policymakers, and private sector champions to explore successful strategies, innovative models, and impactful partnerships that drive skills development and lifelong learning.

The main objectives are:

  • Highlight successful models of private sector engagement in national skills body, sector skills council, and as training provider
  • Provide actionable insights for policy development to encourage private sector involvement

The future of skills is in our hands—let’s bridge the gap together.

Recording

Agenda

Time

11:00 – 11:05 CEST

Introduction

By Mr Ashwani Aggarwal, Head of Skills Policy and Governance, ILO

11:05 – 11:15 CEST

Welcome Address

By Ms Mia Seppo, Assistant Director General (Jobs and Social Protection), ILO

Keynote Address

By Mr Roberto Suárez Santos, Secretary-General, International Organisation of Employers

11:15 – 12:25 CEST

Private Sector led Skills Development System by Mr Ved Mani Tiwari, CEO, National Skill Development Corporation India

Empowering People for the Future: Approach to Skills Development by Ms Bettina Schaller Bossert, Head of Public Affairs, The Adecco Group

Transforming Public Training Centres: How Private Sector Leadership Drive Success by Prof Dr. Subash Bijlani, Adjunct Professor, University of Maryland

Q&A

Moderator: Ashwani Aggarwal

12:25 – 12:30 CEST

Closing remarks

Mr Ramon Iriarte, Education Programme Specialist (TVET), UNESCO

Speakers

  • Photo of Roberto Suárez Santos
    Roberto Suárez Santos
    Secretary-General, International Organisation of Employers
  • Photo of Mia Seppo
    Mia Seppo
    Assistant Director General, jobs and social protection, ILO
  • Photo of Ved Mani Tiwari
    Ved Mani Tiwari
    CEO, National Skill Development Corporation India
  • Photo of Bettina Schaller Bossert
    Bettina Schaller Bossert
    Head of Public Affairs, The Adecco Group
  • Photo of Subash Bijlani
    Subash Bijlani
    Adjunct Professor, University of Maryland USA
  • Photo of Ramon Iriarte
    Ramon Iriarte
    Education Programme Specialist (TVET), UNESCO
  • Photo of Ashwani Aggarwal
    Ashwani Aggarwal
    Head of Skills Policy and Governance, ILO

Contact

Mr Rashinder Bhat [email protected]

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