GENEVA, May 5 — The International Labour Organisation (ILO) has urged world governments to make lifelong learning a central policy priority, warning that major global transformations risk deepening inequality without stronger training systems.
Anadolu Ajansı reported that the United Nations 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.
"Lifelong learning is the bridge between today’s jobs and tomorrow’s opportunities. It is not only about employability and productivity, but also about supporting decent work, driving true innovation, and building resilient societies," said ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo in its report
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, broader competencies such as critical thinking and communication are becoming more important.
The ILO also warned that jobs linked to the green transition do not automatically ensure better working conditions. 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, it said governments, employers, and workers must work together to expand access to lifelong learning or risk leaving large segments of the workforce behind.
