Event: CONNECT University – How can the EU boost advanced digital skills?

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, the European Union finds itself at a crucial juncture. As we navigate the complexities of the digital age, one pressing challenge stands out: the need to enhance advanced digital skills, particularly in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Recognizing this imperative, the European Commission is spearheading efforts to address this issue head-on, including c0-funding projects such as Digital4Business.

 

CONNECT University Online Session

On Tuesday, 27th February 2024, the Commission invites those with an interest in digital skills to join a transformative online session hosted by CONNECT University. CONNECT University is the knowledge-sharing flagship initiative of the European Commission’s Directorate General on Communication Networks, Content and Technologies (DG Connect) that aims to inform the EU staff and the general public about the latest digital trends and challenges which are highly linked with EU’s relevant policies. This session aims to delve into the heart of the matter, exploring practical strategies to bolster the EU’s competitive edge in the global race for talent.

The latest ‘State of the Digital Decade’ report paints a sobering picture. Despite progress, a significant portion of the European population, especially among older demographics, still lacks basic digital skills. Moreover, the EU is projected to fall short of its target of 20 million ICT specialists by 2030, with only 12 million expected to be in the workforce. This shortfall underscores the urgent need for concerted action.

Link to Register

The CONNECT University session will be divided into two dynamic segments, offering valuable insights and fostering engaging discussions:

Event Details

The session kicks off with a comprehensive overview by Eric Peters, Acting Head of Unit for Digital Decade Coordination at DG CONNECT. Peters will provide critical insights into the current landscape of ICT skills in the EU, drawing from the latest report on the ‘State of the Digital Decade.’

Rehana Schwinninger-Ladak, Head of Unit for Interactive Technologies at DG CONNECT, will shed light on the EU’s ongoing efforts to enhance advanced digital skills. By exploring existing initiatives and strategies, participants will gain valuable insights into the EU’s multifaceted approach to tackling this challenge.

Panel Discussion:

The highlight of the session is an interactive panel discussion featuring a lineup of esteemed experts from various sectors. Moderated by Brendan Rowan, Managing Consultant at BluSpecs, the panel will explore diverse perspectives on improving ICT skills, the challenges ahead, and actionable steps for progress.

Panelists include:

• Justina Bieliauskaite, Innovation Director, European DIGITAL SME Alliance
• Madhumalti Sharma, Entrepreneur & Tech Educator, EU Code Week Ambassador, EU Robotics National Coordinator
• Marc Durando, Executive Director of EUN, European Schoolnet Network
• Martin Hayes, Professor of Digital Technologies at the University of Limerick & Lead Author of the “Deans Report” on achieving the target of 20 million ICT professionals by 2030
• Mylène Richard, Director of Campus Région du Numérique Rhône-Alpes region
• Representative from the Belgian Presidency of the Council (speaker TBC)

To find out more and register for the event see here

This event promises to be a unique opportunity to be part of a transformative discussion shaping the future of digital skills in the EU, and one members of the Digital4Business consortium members are looking forward to attending.