A recent study reveals that simultaneous demands for new skills and a transition to Estonian-language education are making vocational training and retraining inaccessible for many residents of Ida-Viru, potentially sidelining them from both the labor market and education.
A recent study conducted by the International Centre for Social Research at Tallinn University highlights the challenges faced by residents of Ida-Viru, Estonia, regarding their access to vocational training and retraining. The study indicates that many individuals in the region are pressured to acquire new skills while simultaneously transitioning to Estonian-language instruction. This dual pressure can make it difficult for many to engage fully in the labor market or access educational opportunities, significantly affecting their economic prospects.
The research was part of a broader European Union project called Skills2Capabilities, aimed at aligning workforce skills with actual labor market needs. Through interviews with 28 experts, including policymakers, representatives of local public sectors, employers, educational institutions, and trade unions, the study sheds light on the complexities of the green transition and the evolving skill demands within the region's labor market.
The findings of the study reveal critical insights into the systemic barriers residents face when attempting to adapt to rapid changes in labor demands and educational requirements. As the region of Ida-Viru undergoes significant transformations in response to both environmental initiatives and language policies, the implications for the local workforce and educational institutions could be profound, potentially leading to increased disparities and exclusion for residents struggling to meet these new demands.
