ILO Launches Green and Digital Skills Initiative for Construction Youth in ASEAN

International Labour Organization

Philippines/Thailand: The International Labour Organization (ILO), with support from the ILO/Korea Partnership Programme, has launched a new project aimed at accelerating the transition of Southeast Asia's construction sector toward sustainability while improving youth employability. The initiative, titled Advancing Digital and Green Skills for Youth in ASEAN, was officially launched on 26 June 2025 in Manila, the Philippines. It focuses on developing industry-led training and apprenticeship programmes in green and digital construction skills, with initial implementation in the Philippines and Thailand.

The construction sector, a major employer in ASEAN, faces challenges such as low productivity and difficulty attracting skilled young professionals. This project addresses these issues by collaborating with governments, employer groups, and worker organizations to ensure training programmes meet real industry needs. A particular emphasis is placed on strengthening apprenticeships in line with ILO Recommendation No. 208 on Quality Apprenticeships. The project will run until December 2026 and will also work with the ASEAN Constructors Federation to support region-wide adoption of the skills programmes.

Source: International Labour Organisation