Iasi, Romania, November 6-7, 2024
Representatives from public and private entities across 11 European countries gathered in Iasi, Romania, to advance the Erasmus+ Blueprint MetaSkills4TCLF project. Co-funded by the European Union, this initiative aims to align education with the needs of the textile, clothing, leather, and footwear (TCLF) industries, equipping them with the skills necessary to thrive in the green and digital transitions.
The event took place during the prestigious 19th Romanian Textiles and Leather Conference (CORTEP 2024), which showcased the latest scientific developments in the TCLF industries. At the conference, the MetaSkills4TCLF consortium unveiled its strategies to modernize vocational education and training (VET) and higher education (HE) across Europe. These initiatives include six innovative curricula focused on the Circular Economy and Digitalization of the Fashion Industry, complemented by immersive educational tools such as virtual reality (VR) experiences that allow students to explore TCLF factories and the creation of a European Virtual Fashion Campus. The Campus will act as an educational and informational hub for the TCLF sectors.
Inspiring the Next Generation of TCLF Professionals
One major challenge for the TCLF industry is an ageing workforce. To address this, the project has launched a dynamic campaign to attract young talent to the sector. This includes school orientation events, holiday courses, company open days, an international fashion competition for TCLF students, and interactive promotional activities aimed at middle and high school pupils.
Strengthening Education through Public-Private Partnerships
Acknowledging the crucial role of public authorities in shaping education systems, particularly in regions with decentralized responsibilities, the MetaSkills4TCLF project is establishing national and regional Pacts for Skills. These public-private partnerships involve collaboration among public authorities, social partners, and educational institutions to address skills gaps and enhance regional resilience and competitiveness.
Carmen Arias, Secretary General of the European Footwear Confederation (CEC), emphasized:
“Skills supply and demand should be built on local/regional expertise and needs to guarantee more resilience and growth of TCLF companies but also regions. Collaboration between public authorities, social partners, and education centres under a regional Pact for Skills can make a difference in strengthening regional competitiveness.”
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The MetaSkills4TCLF project is shaping the future of Europe’s TCLF industries, and you can be part of this groundbreaking initiative. Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram or subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on our latest activities and opportunities to engage.