Limerick Chamber Skillnet Showcases Strength of Enterprise-Led Skills Model at UNESCO Academy in Shanghai

Michael MacCurtain, Network Manager of Limerick Chamber Skillnet and Chair of Learning Limerick, recently represented Limerick at the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities Academy Campus in Shanghai, bringing Skillnet Ireland’s unique workforce development approach to an international conversation on lifelong learning. 

As part of Learning Limerick, a collaborative partnership involving local government, higher education, further education and training providers, and industry, Limerick Chamber Skillnet plays a key role in advancing lifelong learning and workforce development across the region. 

Speaking at the Academy, Michael highlighted Limerick Chamber Skillnet's commitment to aligning lifelong learning with economic development, showcasing the Skillnet Ireland's industry-led model as an example of how collaboration between employers, education providers and government can help address emerging skills needs. 

“For me, the key point was that lifelong learning cannot sit separately from economic development,” Michael said. “If we want people and businesses to adapt to technological change, skills shortages and changing labour markets, then learning has to be affordable, accessible and closely connected to real workforce needs.” 

Michael explained how Skillnet Ireland Business Networks, including Limerick Chamber Skillnet, work directly with employers to identify skills gaps and develop relevant, responsive learning opportunities. 

Michael said the Skillnet Ireland model attracted significant international interest at the UNESCO event, particularly its industry-led approach and its ability to connect employer demand with practical learning solutions. Delegates recognised the value of a system that brings together government, education providers and industry to support both economic competitiveness and workforce adaptability. 

The Academy also provided an opportunity to strengthen the role of employers within the global Learning City conversation. While many discussions focused on supporting marginalised communities and widening participation, Michael emphasised that inclusive lifelong learning ecosystems also need to support professionals, businesses and employees at every stage of their careers. 

Reflecting on the experience, Michael noted that cities of vastly different sizes often face similar challenges around inclusion, digitalisation, stakeholder engagement and access to learning. 

His key takeaway was the importance of a whole-system approach to lifelong learning, bringing together local authorities, education providers, employers and community organisations to create accessible learning pathways for all. 

For Limerick Chamber Skillnet, the experience will help shape future engagement with businesses and learners across the region, Michael said. 

“Our role should be to make learning and development as frictionless as possible. For Limerick Chamber Skillnet, that means continuing to simplify how we communicate, making pathways into training clearer, and ensuring that businesses understand not just what programme is available, but why it is relevant to the challenge they are trying to solve,” he said. 

Through its work within Learning Limerick and the wider Skillnet Ireland network, Limerick Chamber Skillnet continues to demonstrate how employer-led collaboration can support lifelong learning excellence, helping individuals, businesses and regions thrive in a rapidly changing world. 

More information about the programmes and support delivered by Limerick Chamber Skillnet, is available on the organisation’s website, here.