ILO Urges Lifelong Learning As Key To Future Jobs Amid Global Shifts

GENEVA, May 5 (Bernama-Anadolu) -- The International Labour Organisation (ILO) urged governments on Tuesday to make lifelong learning a central policy priority, warning that major global transformations risk deepening inequality without stronger training systems, Anadolu Ajansi reported.

In a new report, the agency said digitalisation, artificial intelligence, the green transition, and demographic changes are reshaping labour markets and skills needs worldwide.

Without inclusive learning systems, these shifts could widen gaps both within and between countries, it said.

"Lifelong learning is the bridge between today’s jobs and tomorrow’s opportunities," ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo said in the report. "It is not only about employability and productivity, but also about supporting decent work, driving true innovation and building resilient societies."

The report found that only 16 per cent of people aged 15 to 64 participated in structured training over the past year, highlighting unequal access, particularly for informal workers and those with lower education levels.

It also stressed that focusing solely on technical skills is insufficient, as employers increasingly demand a mix of digital, cognitive, and socio-emotional abilities.

While demand for artificial intelligence-related skills remains limited, the ILO said broader competencies such as critical thinking and communication are becoming more important.

The report also warned that jobs linked to the green transition do not automatically ensure better working conditions. It also stated that global demand for care workers is expected to nearly double by 2050, growing from 85 million to 158 million.

Calling for stronger investment and coordination, the ILO said governments, employers, and workers must work together to expand access to lifelong learning or risk leaving large segments of the workforce behind.

-- BERNAMA-ANADOLU