Advancing Women in Agriculture 4.0
Women have historically had difficulty gaining access to opportunities in various fields of employment, and unfortunately, gender inequalities remain even in advancing sectors, such as agriculture. With its creative methodology, DG-VET is transforming this story by equipping women with the technological and ecological skills necessary to succeed in the contemporary agricultural environment. This program acknowledges that the involvement of women is not just a question of equity but also a critical strategic need for the long-term expansion and viability of the sector.
The DG-VET curriculum is designed and delivered with a deep interest in being as accessible to as many backgrounds as possible, however with a specific target of reaching youth, women, and NEETs – people who are not in education, employment, or training. In addition to imparting technical knowledge, the program fosters a supportive environment that promotes cooperation and mutual empowerment by offering mentorship opportunities and specialised material for these groups of users. By creating a virtual environment where women can obtain education regardless of their location, the e-learning platform promotes inclusion and dismantles conventional barriers to lifelong education.
The main objective of DG-VET is to establish a pool of competent and self-assured female professionals who can prosper in Agriculture 4.0. In addition to addressing the skills gap, the program aims to develop resilience, leadership abilities, and an innovative mentality. Women are in a better position to contribute to the expansion and sustainability of the agricultural industry as they acquire the skills necessary to successfully negotiate the challenges of contemporary agriculture.
For NEETs, the employer-to-employee matchmaking tool is revolutionary as it gives them direct access to prospective employers who embrace diversity and aim to foster equality in their workplace. The revolutionary tool will not only provide opportunities for employment in the sector but will also act as a repository of employers that are willing to offer internships and job experiences for NEETs.
DG-VET is dedicated to empowering women in agriculture via the development of a competent workforce as well as the promotion of a cultural change that values and celebrates the contributions made by women to the industry. By means of this endeavour, DG-VET is not only dismantling obstacles but also sowing the seeds for an Agriculture 4.0 future that is more sustainable and inclusive.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them. 2021-1-BE01-KA220-VET-000035895