The Workforce Development Agency (WDA) of the Ministry of Labor organized the "Workshop on the ROPES: Forging Green Talent Solutions for an Inclusive Future" on September 5th in response to net-zero emissions and environmental sustainability goals. This workshop brought together government representatives, experts, and scholars from 10 economies to share best practices and future recommendations for green workforce development in the context of green transformation. The aim was to assist Asia-Pacific economies in reevaluating talent training approaches and policymaking to achieve net-zero emissions goals and strengthen the supply of skilled talent.
In the opening remarks, Deputy Director General of WDA, Chen Shih-Chang, stated that the event had the honor of inviting Mr. Zhao Li, Lead Shepherd of APEC HRDWG; Ms. Rosanna A. Urdaneta, Coordinator of APEC HRDWG CBN; and distinguished delegates from Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru, the Philippines, Thailand, the United States, and Vietnam. The workshop mainly focused on green workforce transformation, equitable green transition, and green tech skills building, among other topics.
Chen Shih-Chang expressed that most economies are actively striving to achieve sustainable development goals; therefore, cultivating relevant technical talent is essential for promoting green transformation. This workshop provides a platform for Asia-Pacific economies to re-examine their approaches to green talent cultivation, strengthen cooperation among vocational training institutions, and equip the workforce with the necessary skills for transitioning to a green economy.
Zhao Li stated that we are addressing the challenge of preparing our workforce for the growing green energy sector while ensuring inclusivity and equity. As the demand for green energy jobs rises, it is crucial to tackle workforce gaps, including gender disparities and socioeconomic barriers.
During the workshop, Ms. Nadiejda Quintana, Director of Standardization and Certification of Labor Competencies in Peru, shared her insights on how public-private partnerships in workforce development address skill gaps. Mr. Taj Ahmad Eldridge, Managing Director of Jobs For The Future in the United States, discussed equitable green transition and emphasized the importance of social fairness and justice as economies strive to advance environmental development. The workshop featured vigorous discussions among domestic and international experts, offering recommendations on workforce supply and demand for green transformation, sustainable development, and inclusive growth in the region. Furthermore, it provided valuable policymaking references for future talent development in the region.
WDA stated that promoting green transformation is crucial, and the cultivation of green talent must advance simultaneously. Through the collective sharing of experiences from experts and participants, the workshop has established stronger international partnerships in the Asia-Pacific region to create an inclusive, green-friendly future. To meet the needs of the future green workforce, WDA provides workers with pre-employment and on-the-job training that responds to the demands of green industries. More information of training and employment services can be found on TaiwanJobs (http://www.taiwanjobs.gov.tw/).