UNDP Launches Future of Work Academy to Equip Youth for Green and Digital Jobs

By 2030, the global shift to a low-carbon economy is expected to create around 100 million new green jobs. These opportunities will require young professionals to master a unique combination of digital and sustainability skills. To help bridge the gap, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has announced the launch of its Future of Work Academy, a six-week learning programme designed to prepare youth for the fast-changing job market.

Running from October to November 2025, the Academy offers an inclusive and multi-channel virtual learning experience. It will connect emerging technologies with urgent environmental and social needs, empowering participants to shape the future of work in their communities and beyond.

How the Academy Works

The Future of Work Academy combines live engagement, regional dialogue, self-paced learning, and mentoring opportunities, giving participants both knowledge and practice in future-ready skills.

• INSIGHT Sessions (Core) – Every Wednesday, young participants will join keynotes led by global innovators in AI, climate tech and social impact. These sessions connect bold ideas with real-world examples and include hands-on group work and moderated regional breakouts. Youth from across five sub-regions of Europe and Central Asia will exchange perspectives on local challenges and opportunities.
• BOOSTERS – Every Friday, spotlight sessions connect participants directly with professionals in emerging careers. These are designed as mini-mentorship moments, offering insights into what it’s like to work on the frontlines of sustainability and innovation.
• SELF-LEARNING – Through an online platform, participants can complete bite-sized modules, quizzes and tasks at their own pace. This self-directed component helps deepen understanding while building practical skills.

In addition, participants will gain exposure to other UNDP initiatives and engage with UNDP specialists, strengthening both their knowledge base and professional networks.

A Six-Module Learning Journey

The curriculum is structured around six thematic modules:

1. Welcome to the Future of Work – Understanding the “twin transition.”
2. Digital Transformation & AI Deep Dive.
3. Green Transformation & Circular Economy.
4. Environmental Intelligence.
5. Inside the Role of a Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO).
6. Mindset for the Future of Work.

What Participants Will Gain

By completing the Academy, participants will walk away with:

• Future-fit skills at the intersection of climate action and digital innovation;
• Real-world insights from professionals in green and digital sectors;
• A regional network of peers and UNDP experts;
• Confidence to pursue careers or projects in sustainability and technology;
• A Certificate of Completion from UNDP.

Some participants may also be invited to present their ideas at the UNDP Festival of Future Jobs.

Who Can Apply?

UNDP is seeking up to 150 motivated youth (aged 18–29) who are 

• Final-year students, recent graduates or young professionals aged 18-29.

• Residents of a country or territory in the Eastern Europe and Central Asia region (list of eligible countries and territories available here)

• Passionate about sustainability, technology, entrepreneurship, or social innovation.Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with a deadline of 27 August 2025.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with a deadline of 27 August 2025.

For more information, click HERE.