With this second newsletter of the TWIN TRANSFORMATION project, we would like to emphasize the crucial role of young people and vocational education providers in shaping a more sustainable and digitally advanced future for shoemaking and leather sectors. Their involvement is key to addressing the dual challenges of environmental sustainability and digital transformation.
The TWIN TRANSFORMATION project is forging a new path for the leather and shoemaking sectors by engaging young people through vocational education and training (VET). With a focus on green and digital competencies, the project emphasizes the importance of collaboration between industry leaders and educational institutions to prepare a new generation of eco-conscious, digitally skilled shoemakers and leather employees.
As climate change and digitalization redefine industry landscapes, youth involvement becomes vital. This initiative ensures that young workers and apprentices are not only future-ready but actively contributing to sustainable transformation alongside SME owners.
Vocational Education Centres: The Heart of Youth Engagement
Vocational education centres are playing a pivotal role in the TWIN TRANSFORMATION project by bridging the gap between education and industry. With extensive experience in vocational training and active participation in innovation-focused initiatives, these institutions are leading efforts to engage and empower young learners.
This strong collaboration between education providers and the industry ensures that young people gain hands-on, relevant skills – from carbon footprint measurement to sustainable production methods.
Why Young Workers Need Green & Digital Skills: EU Context
The European Union’s Green Deal and 2030 Digital Compass call for a dramatic shift toward a low-carbon, circular economy and a digitally skilled workforce.
The European Green Deal:
The European Commission’s comprehensive strategy to align climate, energy, transport, and taxation policies with the goal of reducing net greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030 places strong emphasis on sustainable practices across industries - including leather and footwear. To meet these demands, young professionals must be equipped with skills in eco-design, emissions management, and circular product lifecycle principles.
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The Digital Compass:
This update on Europe’s digital strategy outlines the EU’s ambition for 80% of adults to possess basic digital skills by 2030, while positioning digital transformation as a central pillar of vocational education and training.
This project aligns directly with those goals, ensuring young people gain critical competencies in:
- ISO standards for environmental protection.
- Carbon, water, and energy footprint measurement.
- Interactive, digital learning platforms for lifelong learning.
Looking Ahead: Shaping a New Generation of Sustainable Artisans
By empowering young people to lead the change, the TWIN TRANSFORMATION project is driving the modernization of the leather and shoemaking sectors while strengthening its long-term resilience. Through active collaboration among VET providers, SMEs, and policymakers, the next generation of shoemakers and leatherworkers will emerge with strong digital skills and a deep commitment to environmental sustainability.
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