GREEN SKILLS FOR A GREEN ECONOMY: INTEGRATING SUSTAINABILITY COMPETENCIES INTO NATIONAL EDUCATION SYSTEMS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55640/Keywords:
Green Skills, Green Economy, Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), Competency-Based Education, Curriculum Innovation, Education Policy, SDG 4.Abstract
The global transition towards a green economy necessitates a workforce equipped with specialized "green skills." This study examines the critical gap between the current output of education systems and the growing demand for sustainability competencies, and proposes a framework for their systemic integration into national curricula. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, this research analyzes global data from the UNESCO Global Education Monitoring Report and the International Labor Organization to quantify the skills gap. A comparative case study analysis of Finland, Singapore, and Rwanda is used to identify best practices in policy and curriculum design. Statistical analysis reveals a significant projected shortage of professionals with green skills, with over 60% of employers in a surveyed dataset reporting difficulties in recruitment. This article provides a novel, synthesized framework for policymakers and educators, moving beyond theoretical discourse to offer actionable strategies for embedding sustainability competencies at all educational levels, thereby directly contributing to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals 4 (Quality Education) and 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).
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