The Project “Access to Training and Careers in Bucharest–Ilfov – Keep Up” – a strategic response to labor market transformations in the Bucharest-Ilfov region
In a context marked by rapid technological change and structural shifts in the labor market, skills development has become essential for maintaining economic competitiveness and employment. Continuous adaptation of professional skills is no longer optional for employees, but a necessity.
Co-financed by the European Social Fund through the Education and Employment Program 2021–2027, the project “Access to Training and Career in Bucharest–Ilfov – Keep Up” contributes to increasing participation in lifelong learning in the Bucharest–Ilfov region. The initiative supports the European Union’s two priorities: the digital transition and the green transition.
Over the course of 30 months, ADIZMB—the project leader—and the “România Prinde Rădăcini” Association—the partner—are implementing a support ecosystem for 602 employees aged 18 to 64. They receive an integrated professional transformation pathway:
– Skills Audit: assessing current skill levels and identifying career barriers.
– Personalized Counseling: strategic reorientation in a fluid labor market.
– Up-skilling and Re-skilling: acquiring new certifications in fields critical to the economy of the future.
The main objective is to update and develop skills relevant to the new demands of the economy, with the ultimate goal of facilitating employees’ access to a job or helping them retain their current one. The project’s results contribute to the long-term development of an adaptable workforce capable of responding to economic changes.
Project architecture: three lines of action
- Culture of continuous learning: awareness campaigns that combat resistance to change and promote the benefits of ongoing development.
- Strategic career guidance: services designed to support informed professional decisions.
- Excellence in training: rigorous, comprehensive programs tailored to the needs of modern employers.
Training programs: skills for the economy of the future
The selection of courses within the project “Access to Training and Career in Bucharest–Ilfov – Keep Up” reflects the needs identified in the territorial analyses conducted by the project’s team of experts:
– IT Specialist (Computer Systems Programmer): training to meet the need for process digitization.
– Digital Skills: the technological literacy required at every hierarchical level.
– Environmental Officer: training company employees to comply with sustainability standards (Green Deal).
– Construction Electrician: supporting the infrastructure sector through high-level technical qualifications.
Each course is conducted in an interactive format, which includes case studies, applied discussions, simulations, teamwork, and learning tasks based on practical activities. The vocational training programs for “Environmental Officer,” “IT Systems Programmer,” and “Construction Electrician” are recognized by the National Qualifications Authority, offering nationally recognized diplomas.
2025 Milestones: Progress and Implementation
The project has been implemented since October 2024 and is currently in full swing. Key achievements by 2025 include:
– Project launch and implementation of awareness campaigns,
– Recruitment and assessment of the target group,
– Providing career counseling services to dozens of employees in the target group,
– Launching vocational training programs,
– Developing course materials.
“Access to Training and Career in Bucharest–Ilfov – Keep Up” supports the development of digital, technical, and environmental skills, employees’ adaptation to technological changes, professional mobility and flexibility, the strengthening of a culture of lifelong learning in the Bucharest–Ilfov region, and increased regional competitiveness by attracting investment and stimulating local innovation
The project promotes the principles of equal opportunities and non-discrimination, facilitating equitable access to training and professional development opportunities, in line with the investment priorities, objectives, and actions undertaken by Romania under the Education and Employment Program 2021–2027 (PEO). The intervention contributes to leveraging human capital as a strategic resource for sustainable development and regional competitiveness.
Priority: P9. Strengthening public participation in the lifelong learning process to facilitate transitions and mobility;
Duration: 30 months (2024–2026);
Budget: 4,719,656.16 lei;
Target group: 602 employees;
Project code: MySMIS 317726;
Funding: Project co-financed by the European Social Fund through the Education and Employment Program 2021–2027;
Partners: Bucharest Metropolitan Area Inter-Community Development Association (ADIZMB) – project leader; “Romania Takes Root” Association – partner.