The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Europe and Central Asia welcomes over 200 young professionals (ages 18–29) to its first Future of Work Academy, to help them navigate better the twin digital and green transitions.  

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 Future of Work Academy, launching this week from UNDP’s Istanbul Regional Hub, is an inclusive, multi-channel learning experience that connects young professionals from across the Western Balkans, South Caucasus, Central Asia and Türkiye with real-economy players in the private sector market.  

Over six weeks, participants will explore the intersections of green and digital transformation, connect with private sector experts and practitioners, and gain practical tools to shape their future careers. The programme combines expert-led sessions, live collaborative peer exchange, self-paced learning, practical skills application and mentoring opportunities for the selected applicants. Keynotes from global innovators and thought leaders explore emerging trends in AI, climate tech and social impact.  

“The world of work is changing at a speed and scale we have never experienced before. At UNDP, we see it as our role to equip young professionals with the skills and mindsets needed to thrive in jobs that are both digital and sustainable, putting them at the forefront of navigating this twin transition. The Future of Work Academy is an investment in youth as drivers of innovation, resilience and inclusive growth,” says Ivana Zivkovic, Regional Director of UNDP in Europe and Central Asia.

The Academy builds on UNDP’s work with the private sector and governments around human capital and building future skills. The private sector creates over 90 percent of jobs in developing and emerging economies. Companies also bring new technology, digital tools and business models that can accelerate impact. Working with businesses ensures UNDP’s work directly improves livelihoods, skills and opportunities, as well as provides a pathway to partner on sustainable development solutions.  

The Future of Work Academy is structured around six thematic modules that combine expert insights with practical learning activities. Modules explore the digital transition and AI, including how inclusive and ethical AI can further change the way governments and companies work; green transition and circular economy; environmental intelligence and opportunities for careers in data-driven sustainability; and shaping sustainability from the inside, across business, policy and finance domains. The programme explores the mindset for the future of work, focusing on building the soft skills and system thinking needed to navigate uncertainty and complexity.

“The twin transition brings both opportunities and challenges. Career shifts will be more common and we are likely to become ‘learning-workers’, building skills alongside our jobs. The Academy seeks to put this into practice — helping youth develop not only new skills, but also the mindsets needed to thrive in change,” says Dr. Gog Soon Joo, Fellow at the Centre for Skills-First Practices at the Singapore University of Social Sciences and Chief Skills Officer at SkillsFuture Singapore.  

Dr. Gog Soon Joo is an Academy speaker, joining a diverse lineup that includes representatives from major companies (Amazon, Philips, Hepsiburada and QNB), public institutions (European Training Foundation) and think tanks and startups (Circular Innovation Lab, Student Energy, Without and Doktar). The programme also features contributions from HR leaders and recruiters, ensuring a wide range of perspectives.

Beyond learning, the Academy is a platform for collaboration and action, inspiring youth to lead change in their communities and beyond. Responses for participation were overwhelming, showing the need and interest young people have in putting themselves forward for a place in solving the region’s future challenges.

For any questions regarding the Future of Work Academy, contact:

Josip Ivanovic, Programme Specialist - Information Integrity and Youth Engagement: josip.ivanovic@undp.org

Kübra Öztürk, Knowledge Management and Partnerships Specialist: kubra.ozturk@undp.org

Karen Cirillo, Regional Communications: karen.cirillo@undp.org