From January to April 2025, the EU4SKILLS project conducted six focus group discussions across Libya as part of its inception phase. These sessions were crucial for gathering evidence-based insights and up-to-date data to ensure the project’s goals of aligning education and training systems with labor market needs and contributing to sustainable economic development in Libya.

The series of focus group discussions kicked off on January 27, 2025, at the Libyan Academy for Postgraduate Studies in Tripoli, followed by sessions at the University of Benghazi on February 9, the University of Elmergib in Al Khums on February 19, and Sebha University on February 26. A specialized focus group specifically addressing training gaps and SME support within the financial and banking sector was also held in Tripoli on February 26. The series concluded on April 17 at the headquarters of the Libyan Industry Union.

These focus groups, which were implemented in partnership with the Mediterranean Universities Union (UNIMED) and BDO Jordan, brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including academics, government officials, private sector representatives, and civil society actors. They engaged in discussions centered on critical themes such as digital skills, employability, the green and blue economy, and financial sector capacity building, all with the aim of aligning higher and technical education with current labor market demands and identifying challenges and key areas for improvement.

The insights and recommendations gathered from these sessions will directly shape the subsequent phases of the EU4SKILLS project, ensuring its implementation is both effective and impactful in meeting stakeholder needs.