The Fourth Annual Report of the Permanent Observatory “New Jobs = New Training” is an important platform for discussion by Italian talent abroad, the business community and Italian institutions. Discussing developments in the most dynamic employment and training sectors is an essential step in anticipating future trends and contributing to the development of Italy’s human capital. Comparing global and local experiences makes it possible to optimize the Italian talent community and cultivate a strategic and inclusive vision for the country’s future.
A central theme emerging from the debate is the demographic crisis, which is characterized by a structural decline in the birth rate and the progressive ageing of the population. This situation calls for a strategic reflection on the future of Italy’s labor force. Demand is estimated to reach 3.3 to 3.7 million new workers in coming years, a large proportion of which related to generational turnover. Another issue that needs to be addressed is the growing numbers of young graduates who are emigrating, a situation that should not be seen solely as a loss, but rather as a two-way skills traffic. A clear need thus emerges to create favorable conditions to retain and attract talent, both Italian and foreign, by developing and encouraging return and integration policies.
Against this background, the Italian education system is and remains a central element. On the one hand it is recognized for its excellence in the humanities and sciences, while on the other it is criticized – at the university level – for its excessive specialization and its limited interconnectedness with the labor market and the world of business. The development of transferable expertise in areas such as leadership, strategic vision, interpersonal skills and internationalization, which are vital if the country is to address rapid technological transformation and the growing demand for digital skills and innovation management, is crucial. At the same time, there is a clear need for reforms that foster a more porous interplay between training and economic activity by strengthening links between schools, universities and businesses and developing pathways for school-to-work alternation, along with international internships.
Businesses are strategic players in attracting, enhancing and developing talent, especially in the technology and biopharmaceutical sectors. This is achieved through significant investment in research and development and by creating hubs and networks for regional and international collaboration. Public policies must support these initiatives by encouraging targeted investment, cutting red tape, and fostering more attractive employment and career conditions, with a focus on pay levels and merit. Interaction between the private sector, the institutions and civil society is and remains a prerequisite in cultivating an innovative and sustainable ecosystem.
What emerges in each case is the need to strengthen the perception of Italy as a global hub for training and innovation and to shake off negative stereotypes linked to bureaucracy and working conditions. The cultural component, including the optimization of the country’s historical and artistic heritage and the humanities, should be recognized as a distinctive element to be integrated with science, technology, engineering and math disciplines to encourage comprehensive and attractive education and training pathways. Also needed is an international education policy with the ability to attract foreign students, researchers and professionals, accompanied by services and infrastructure that support good living standards and a work-life balance.
In short, an urgent need for coordinated and systemic action has emerged, to address the demographic, training and innovation challenges facing the country. Building a dynamic and well-integrated talent community in the global context will be vital in sustaining Italy’s competitiveness and growth. A long-term strategic vision based on closer cooperation between the institutions and the business and academic communities, as well as the optimization of human capital as a lever for sustainable development, is key in this respect. Italy now has the chance to turn today’s challenges into opportunities by focusing on inclusive, innovative and international education and training with the ability to attract and retain talent from around the world.