By 2030, the global shift to a low-carbon economy is projected to unlock around 100 million new green jobs — roles that demand fluency in both technology and sustainability skills. Yet many young professionals are not prepared to access them due to gaps in skills, networks and relevant experience.

The UNDP’s Future of Work Academy will inspire new thinking on the future of work for youth through an inclusive, multi-channel learning experience that connects emerging technologies with urgent environmental and social needs.

Over 200 final-year students, recent graduates or young professionals aged 18-29 from across the Europe and Central Asia region are participating in the first Future of Work Academy.

How the Academy Works

The Future of Work Academy combines live engagement, regional dialogue, self-paced learning and mentoring opportunities for the selected applicants. It includes expert-led inspirational sessions, collaborative peer exchange and practical skills application. Here’s how each week is going to look:

INSIGHT (Core) Sessions | Every Wednesday at 2:00 p.m. or 5:00 p.m. (Istanbul time)

Keynotes from global innovators and thought leaders exploring emerging trends in AI, climate tech, and social impact. These sessions blend bold ideas with real-world examples, helping you connect the dots between the twin transition, your skills and your career path. You’ll dive into hands-on group work and peer discussions that unpack how these shifts are shaping the future of work and the skills you’ll need to thrive.

In moderated regional breakout sessions, you’ll exchange perspectives with peers across the five sub-regions of Europe and Central Asia. Together you’ll unpack local innovation challenges and opportunities and build a shared understanding of the skills employers need now.

BOOSTERS – MEET a PRACTITIONER or LEADER in the field | Spotlight sessions on Fridays

These interactive sessions connect you directly with professionals working in future-fit and emerging careers. Think of them as mini-mentorship moments—chances to ask questions, get real-world advice and hear what it’s actually like to work at the edge of sustainability and innovation.

SELF-LEARNING Bite-sized learning through an online platform

Learn at your own pace with short modules with lessons, quizzes and tasks that deepen your understanding of the Future of Work and build practical skills for the future.

Throughout the Academy, you’ll also get the chance to explore other UNDP initiatives and connect with UNDP specialists—broadening your network and gaining insight into sustainable development work.

Academy Overview

The Future of Work Academy is structured around six thematic modules that combine expert insights with practical learning activities. Each module comprises live sessions and interactive tasks.

Module 1: Welcome Session: What is the Future of Work? Why is knowing about the “Twin Transition" important? 

Kick off the Academy by unpacking what we mean by the "twin transition"—the simultaneous shift toward a green and digital future. Understand why this matters for your generation, your future career, and how youth can shape this transformation from the start. As the introductory session, more information about UNDP, as well as the Academy expectations will be provided.

Module 2: Digital Transformation and AI Deep Dive 

Dive into digital transformation with a special focus on AI. Discuss challenges around AI and guardrails needed, and how inclusive and ethical AI can further change the way governments and companies work—from smarter service delivery to more equitable economic models. Real-world examples will show how AI can be a force for good, and where your role might fit in.

Module 3: Green Transformation and Circular Economy Deep Dive

Explore how the green transition is reshaping industries, supply chains and career paths. From circular design to smart recycling systems, learn how AI and digital tools interact with other drivers to accelerate the shift away from the traditional “take-make-waste” model. We'll spotlight innovative solutions, green jobs on the rise, and how you can build the skills to thrive in a regenerative, low-carbon economy.

Module 4: Environmental Intelligence – why do companies and Governments need It?

Explore how climate and environmental data is being transformed into actionable intelligence. From wildfire prediction to clean energy optimisation, learn how AI, Earth observation and sensor data are helping build more resilient societies—and opening up a whole new space for careers in data-driven sustainability.

Module 5: What does a Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO) actually do? 

Meet professionals shaping sustainability from the inside—across business, policy and finance. Learn what it takes to land (or grow into) a growing role in the future economy. Practice storytelling techniques and pitching strategies to communicate sustainability ideas that inspire action—essential skills for a CSO. Includes an HR perspective on recruitment trends in this field.

Module 6: The Mindset for the Future of Work

In a world where change is constant, mindset matters. This session focuses on building the soft skills and adaptive thinking needed to navigate uncertainty and complexity and will introduce you to system thinking and mission innovation as an alternative to a more conventional and linear way of thinking. This last week will also reflect on your Academy journey and how to translate what you’ve learned into your next steps.

Takeaways

• Future-fit skills at the intersection of climate action and digital innovation, from AI ethics to systems thinking to sustainability storytelling;
• Real-world insights from practitioners working in the green and digital economy, including what it takes to break into emerging career paths;
• A regional network of like-minded peers, professionals and UNDP colleagues, expanding your reach and opportunities across Eurasia;
• Confidence to shape your own journey in the twin transition, whether that means launching a project, pursuing a new career or influencing change in your community;
• Visibility and connection to global platforms, with opportunities to showcase your ideas (such as potential invitations to present at the Festival of Future Jobs by UNDP);
• A Certificate of Completion from UNDP, recognising your participation in this curated, forward-looking learning experience.