TAHNIAH DR. DIANAH MAZLAN TAJAAN ERASMUS+

Through Agenda 2030, the global community has emphasized the importance of decent work in achieving sustainable development. In line with this, ASEAN declared in 2018 its commitment to promoting greenjobs to minimize environmental impacts. According to the International Labour Organisation (ILO), decarbonization could create up to 24 million green jobs by 2030, benefiting Asia significantly. Green jobs, defined as environmentally sustainable and economically viable, include roles in renewable energy, sustainable transportation, and waste management.

As climate change intensifies, ASEAN countries prioritize green job education to meet environmental goals and prepare their workforce for future challenges. Collaborations with universities and vocational institutions have resulted in specialized programs offering practical training and internships. Many regional governments also provide incentives such as research grants and tax credits to support green job initiatives and encourage sustainable practices.

The TUNE project aligns with the UN and ASEAN agendas by fostering green job education in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Its objectives include enhancing education, career guidance, and job placement processes to nurture future green leaders. TUNE focuses on updating curricula, building capacity for sustainable practices, and strengthening communication between educators and employers to better align academic outcomes with industry needs. With three key pillars—management and monitoring, operations, and dissemination—TUNE aims to transform HEIs into institutions that contribute knowledge and socio-economic value. The project also seeks to improve access to quality education, particularly for underserved populations, while boosting employability in green sectors.

By investing in green job education and training, ASEAN can build a skilled workforce to address climate challenges, promote sustainability, and ensure long-term development. These efforts will enable the region to align industry needs with academic expertise, paving the way for a sustainable and inclusive future.