The digital and green transitions sweeping across the labour market have ushered in challenges and opportunities, shaping the new skills landscape and transforming the job requirements for now and the future. The European Year of Skillshas emerged as a catalyst to enhance competitiveness and investment in training and upskilling opportunities.
This article explores the importance of digital skills in this era. It sheds light on young people’s participation in training, especially those classified as “Not in Employment, Education, or Training”, or NEETs.
Participation of NEETs in Training Initiatives
The participation of NEETs in training initiatives is crucial to address the risks associated with disengagement from education and the labour market. In the European Union (EU), efforts are being made to ensure a smooth transition from education to work and reduce the NEET rate. The leading age group of focus in this context is young adults aged 15 to 29.
The EU has set a target for this age group, aiming to have a share of NEETs below 9% by 2030. However, as of 2021, the average NEET rate in the EU stands at 13.1%,indicating that there is still progress to be made.
While some Member States have already reached the 2030 target, variations exist between countries. These statistics emphasize the need for increased participation of NEETs in training initiatives, which can provide them with the necessary skills and opportunities to enhance their employability and integration into the labour market.
By investing in targeted training programs and support measures, policymakers can contribute to reducing the NEET rate and ensuring a brighter future for young adults in the EU.
The Fundamental Digital Skills for the Twin Transition
In the current era marked by the simultaneous digital and green transformations in the labour market, digital skills acquisition is critical to increasing the NEETs’ employability and job prospects. Within this context, a range of digital skills emerges as particularly valuable.
Basic digital literacy skills: They are much needed in the digital workplace, and they include, among others, the proficient use of digital tools, effective communication in online environments, and even knowledge of using common software applications.
Coding and programming skills: The rapidly ongoing digital transformation has also exacerbated the need for websites, mobile applications, or software solutions. Therefore, knowing how to code, at least for the moment, is one of the highly sought-after skills to learn in the digital era.
Data analytics and interpretation skills: Digital transformation have dramatically increased the amount of data companies have. Consequently, having individuals with the skills to analyze and translate this data into actionable plans can be a powerful asset for businesses seeking to make more data-driven decisions.
Cybersecurity skills: The deeper digitalization of a company, the higher its data exposure. This is particularly critical when dealing with sensitive company information or personal data belonging to customers or employees, which must be safeguarded at all costs. Consequently, cybersecurity skills rank among the top digital skills companies actively seeks to protect their sensitive information and defend against cyber threats.
Digital marketing competencies: An increasingly digital environment requires digital marketing competencies, including proficiency in social media management and content creation, which are highly valuable for enterprises aiming to establish a strong online presence.
Moreover, adaptability and a relentless commitment to lifelong learning and upskilling emerge as vital traits, considering the rapid evolution characterizing the digital landscape. Developing the aforementioned digital skills, NEETs can position themselves as qualified candidates for emerging job opportunities arising from the digital and green transitions, thereby augmenting their prospects for successful labour market reintegration.
The Changing Skills Landscape
The rapid technological advancements, largely triggered by the pandemic, have fueled a craze for digital transformation, for life to continue as normal as possible. At the same time, this presents a significant opportunity for accelerating sustainable practices, as these two trends often reinforce each other synergistically.
The widespread adoption of digital technologies and the integration of sustainable practices have created an urgent need for the workforce to acquire new and relevant skills. In today’s technology-driven workplace, digital skills have become a fundamental driver of employability, equipping individuals with the ability to navigate and succeed in a digitally-driven environment.
From foundational digital literacy skills to advanced proficiencies in data analysis and programming, diverse digital competencies have become indispensable across industries. The dynamic nature of the modern workforce demands adaptability and agility in keeping up with these evolving digital requirements.
The Digital Divide and NEETs
NEETs face specific challenges when it comes to acquiring and honing digital skills, which can hinder their integration into the labour market. These obstacles stem from various factors, including limited access to educational resources, financial constraints, and a lack of confidence in their abilities.
Limited Access to Educational Resources
NEETs often face difficulties accessing educational resources, such as formal training programs, courses, or workshops. They may have limited options for pursuing higher education due to personal circumstances, financial constraints, or the unavailability of suitable programs in their local areas. This lack of access to quality education hinders their ability to acquire and upgrade their skills.
Financial Constraints
Financial constraints play a significant role in limiting the opportunities for NEETs to acquire new skills. Many NEETs, especially those 25+, may have additional financial responsibilities, such as supporting a family or paying off debts, making allocating resources for training programs or courses challenging. The costs associated with digital training, certification, and acquiring necessary equipment can be prohibitive for young people facing economic hardships.
Evolving Digital Landscape
The fast-evolving nature of the digital landscape poses a challenge for NEETs, especially those above 25 years old. Technological advancements and emerging digital trends require continuous learning and adaptability. However, the lack of access to regular training and upskilling opportunities makes it difficult for NEETs to keep pace with the latest developments. This mismatch between their skills and the evolving requirements of the labour market exacerbates their marginalization and reduces their competitiveness in the job market.
Lack of Confidence
A lack of confidence in their abilities can be a significant barrier for NEETs in embracing and developing digital skills. Older NEETs may feel overwhelmed by the rapid pace of technological advancements or perceive digital skills as something exclusively for younger generations. This self-doubt can hinder their motivation to engage in training programs. It can lead to a cycle of disengagement and further marginalization from the labour market.
Five Ways to Address These Challenges
To address these challenges, targeted interventions and support systems can be implemented to empower NEETs in acquiring and maintaining digital skills, such as:
- Tailored Training Programs: Designing training programs specifically tailored to the needs and circumstances of NEETs can help them overcome the challenges they face. These programs should provide flexible learning options, consider their financial constraints, and focus on building confidence in their digital capabilities.
- Financial Support and Scholarships: Financial support, scholarships, or subsidized training programs can alleviate the financial burden and make digital skills training more accessible to NEETs. Governments, organizations, and educational institutions can collaborate to develop specific funding schemes.
- Mentorship and Peer Support: Establishing mentorship programs where experienced professionals or peers can guide and support NEETs in their skill development journey can boost their confidence and motivation. Peer support networks can also foster a sense of community and provide opportunities for collaboration and learning.
- Digital Inclusion Initiatives: Governments and organizations should prioritize digital inclusion initiatives to bridge the digital divide. This includes improving access to affordable internet connectivity, providing access to digital devices, and offering digital literacy training designed for older NEETs.
- Raising Awareness: Creating awareness campaigns highlighting the importance of digital skills and addressing the misconceptions and self-doubt among NEETs can help shift their mindset and encourage active participation in training programs. Emphasizing the relevance of digital skills across various industries and showcasing success stories of individuals who have successfully transitioned can inspire and motivate NEETs to pursue digital skill development.
Conclusion
As the labour market evolves, acquiring digital skills becomes paramount for the inclusion and employability of NEETs, particularly those aged 25 and above. By creating tailored training programs, fostering collaboration, and providing support, policymakers, educators, and industry leaders can unlock NEET opportunities, empowering them to develop the skills our digital era requires. Bridging the digital skills gap among NEETs will boost their individual prospects and contribute to a prosperous and inclusive society.
by Vasileios Bouronikos, Institute for Entrepreneurial Development, Lost Millennials project
