On November 21, 2024, global leaders, experts, and policymakers came together for the ‘BUILDING GREEN – Together!’ online event, organized by the European Training Foundation’s Network for Excellence (ENE) and its greening initiative, GRETA (Greening Responses to Excellence through Thematic Actions). This impactful event highlighted the vital role of vocational skills in addressing climate change and advancing sustainability goals, with a focus on the construction and renewable energy sectors.
Event Highlights:
- Global Climate Goals: Clara Camarasa from the UN Environment Programme explored the challenges and opportunities in achieving global climate targets, particularly focusing on the construction sector, which contributes nearly 40% of global CO₂ emissions. She shared how sustainable practices could cut these emissions by half within five years.
- Just Sustainability Transitions: Dr. Martina Bisello from the European Environment Agency provided insights into policy frameworks essential for fostering equitable sustainability transitions across Europe.
- Greening Ukraine’s Reconstruction: Iryna Shumik from Ukraine’s Ministry of Education and Science discussed vocational excellence as a cornerstone for sustainable rebuilding in Ukraine.
- Skills Development Across Continents: Experts from Africa presented case studies on recognizing prior learning and integrating green skills in construction, highlighting the transformative impact of education and migration policies in Ethiopia and Kenya.
Alijon Oripov, specialist of the Department of Strategic Development and International Rankings of the National University of Uzbekistan participated in the event, gaining valuable insights into global practices and policies related to sustainable development and vocational training. Representing NUU, the specialist engaged with key discussions on greening education, fostering international collaboration, and implementing sustainable vocational strategies. The knowledge acquired will contribute to ongoing initiatives at NUU, including enhancing sustainability-focused education and training programs.
‘BUILDING GREEN – Together!’ emphasized the urgency of addressing skills shortages in key sectors. By 2030, 60% of construction workers and 85% of renewable energy workers will require training in sustainable practices. Through the collaboration of policymakers, educational institutions, and industry, this event laid the groundwork for a greener, more inclusive global workforce.
