Charles University hosts 1CORE 4EU+ Workshop on preparing talent for a sustainable food sector

Held as part of 1CORE project's Task 4.5: Disseminating the values of a green, digital and resilient 4EU+ Alliance, the event gathered students, academics, NGOs, and representatives of the sustainability and food industries to discuss how universities can better prepare and equip graduates for work in a rapidly changing and sustainability-driven sector.

Interactive sessions focused on the skills needed for the green and digital transition, the mismatch between academic training and industry expectations, and long-standing challenges such as fragmented funding and reliance on short-term projects. Participants also examined how universities can strengthen links between education, research, and practice to support a more resilient food system.

The workshop welcomed both local and international partners. Among the external stakeholders were representatives from the NGO sector and major corporate actors, including Youth Empowered Coca-Cola HBC and ProVeg International, whose contributions offered insights into emerging workforce needs and sector-wide sustainability priorities. Discussions highlighted the shared commitment of universities and industry to improve professional readiness of graduates, foster innovation, and support a more sustainable and competitive European food ecosystem.