The Hellenic Presidency of EUSAIR, in collaboration with the Greek Ministry of Economy and Finance, hosted a thematic event focused on promoting policies and practices related to skills development in the macroregion. This event, held on March 4th and 5th, centered on the theme of "Improved Social Cohesion," addressing key issues under Pillar 5. 

The event included a workshop dedicated to fostering skills policies and practices across the region, where various actions and goals of the European Skills Agenda were introduced. This EU initiative aims to advance skill development, boost employability, and facilitate the green and digital transitions, with a focus on lifelong learning, upskilling, and reskilling across Europe through 12 specific actions.

Participants engaged in panel discussions about vocational education, the design of training programs, and their implementation in Greece. Presenters emphasized that the Hellenic Presidency of EUSAIR strives to better align the social policies of participating countries with the European Pillar of Social Rights (EPSR). The EPSR advocates for equal opportunities, access to the labor market, fair working conditions, social protection, and inclusion.

A key takeaway from the discussions was the need for EUSAIR Pillar 5 priorities to enhance social cohesion by ensuring equal opportunities and labor market access for youth. It is essential to improve the adaptability of the labor market and increase the employability of young people, the unemployed, and the existing workforce. This can be achieved through targeted upskilling and reskilling initiatives.

It was also noted that many EUSAIR countries face challenges such as skills mismatches, brain drain, underemployment, insecurity, and technological and societal shifts. To address these challenges, EUSAIR should promote vocational education and training, as well as lifelong learning opportunities and greater access to the labor market for the Adriatic-Ionian population.

The second day of the event included a study visit where participants explored best practices in vocational education and training, organized by the Ministry of Education, Religious Affairs, and Sports in Haidari.