ERI SEE Contributes to ETF Regional Webinar on Skills Systems and Algorithmically Managed Work

Sandra Brkanović, Director of the Education Reform Initiative of South Eastern Europe (ERI SEE), participated as a speaker at the regional webinar “Visibility and value of skills in algorithmically managed work in the Western Balkans and Türkiye”, organised by the European Training Foundation (ETF) within the ETF Skills Lab Network of Experts on 12 May 2026.

The webinar brought together experts, researchers, institutions and regional stakeholders to discuss the impact of algorithmically managed work on skills systems, labour markets and education policies, with a particular focus on the Western Balkans and Türkiye. Discussions addressed the growing role of digital platforms, automated performance monitoring and data-driven management practices in shaping labour market expectations and redefining the visibility and value of workers’ skills.

Within the panel dedicated to regional perspectives and responses, Sandra Brkanović delivered a presentation on “Aligning skills systems across the Western Balkans: regional responses to algorithmically managed work”, focusing on the importance of regional cooperation in adapting education and training systems to rapidly changing labour-market needs.

The presentation highlighted ERI SEE’s ongoing regional work in the areas of occupational and qualification standards, curricula development, teacher training, lifelong learning and work-based learning, emphasising the need for education systems to respond more quickly and strategically to digital transformation and changing competence requirements.

Particular attention was given to the increasing importance of digital, transversal and adaptive competences, as well as to the role of lifelong learning, continuous upskilling and reskilling, and recognition of non-formal and informal learning in increasingly digitalised labour markets. The presentation also stressed that stronger implementation capacities, investment in teachers and regional exchange of experiences remain essential for ensuring that education reforms effectively respond to evolving labour-market realities.

Speakers at the webinar also included Cristiana Burzio from ETF, representatives of the INFOSTUD online job platform from Serbia, Elvisa Dristhi from the Faculty of Economy at the University of Shkodra “Luigj Gurakuqi” in Albania, Nermin Oruç from CREDI Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as representatives of qualifications authorities from the region. The webinar was moderated by Branka Andjelkovic from the ETF Skills Lab Network of Experts.

The webinar further reaffirmed the importance of regional dialogue and cooperation in addressing shared challenges related to digital transformation, skills development and the future of work in South Eastern Europe.