Closing the Skills Gaps: Inclusive Apprenticeships and Work-Based Learning

GAN Global, in collaboration with the International Organisation of Employers (IOE) and with support from the European Union, has officially launched new factsheet, Closing the Skills Gaps: Inclusive Apprenticeships and Work-Based Learning, during a global event held on November 20, 2024.

The webinar, Tapping into Talent: Inclusive Apprenticeships and Work-Based Learning for People with Disabilities, brought together employers, business organizations, disability inclusion practitioners, and international institutions to highlight the critical importance of designing apprenticeship and work-based learning (WBL) programs that are fully inclusive of persons with disabilities.

Addressing global labor shortages through inclusive WBL

With 74% of employers worldwide struggling to find qualified workers, there is an urgent need to address labor shortages by harnessing the potential of underutilized talent, particularly persons with disabilities, who make up 16% of the global population yet face unemployment rates nearly 25% higher than those without disabilities.

Inclusive apprenticeships and work-based learning (WBL) programs not only provide a pathway to employment for persons with disabilities, but also offer businesses a sustainable solution to workforce challenges. By fostering diversity and promoting inclusive hiring practices, companies can drive innovation, enhance workplace culture, and boost profitability.

The factsheet outlines the business case for inclusive apprenticeships, noting that companies hiring people with disabilities often see higher revenue, net income, and profit margins. Retention rates for apprentices, including those with disabilities, can reach up to 85%, reinforcing loyalty and reducing turnover. It also provides practical guidance for businesses, from developing inclusive job descriptions to offering accessible training and mentorship, and features real-world example from The Adecco Group, Nestlé, Accenture, and Adaptive Construction Solutions (ACS), showcasing how inclusive apprenticeship programs help businesses tap into broader talent pools and create sustainable employment pathways.

This initiative also aligns with ILO Recommendation 208 on Quality Apprenticeships, which calls on members to promote social inclusion in apprenticeships, ensuring that persons belonging to vulnerable groups, including those with disabilities, have equal opportunities.

GAN remains committed to advocating for inclusive work-based learning strategies that benefit both employers and apprentices alike. Explore the factsheet and discover how inclusive apprenticeships can bridge skills gaps.