💼 Iceland Leads OECD Employment. Australia’s Health Workforce Grows. Netherlands Tops ICT Exports.

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US Department of Labor to upskill manufacturing workforce in landmark funding of $86M.  Governor Moore boosts health-care jobs and training through new rehabilitation center.  Pakistan advances its Digital Transformation 2025 with new Ignite programs boosting digital skills and innovation. Weatherization program to drive green skills workforce, coupled with economic development.

UAE and Google launch AI training initiative. Ellucian launched its AI-powered learning tool, Journey, to align education with workforce needs. Nigeria and the European Union launch an education initiative to train teachers and support youth development.

Today's Topics

💼 Workforce. Iceland topped the employment rates in OECD countries
⚕️ Healthcare. Australia's health workforce has increased by >35%
🤖 Artificial Intelligence. Netherlands led European countries in ICT exports

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💼 Iceland Topped the Employment Rates in OECD Countries

Iceland achieved 85.6% employment in Q4 2024 through 90% collective bargaining coverage, high wage floors, and flexible labor policies. Two-thirds of OECD nations exceeded 70.2% employment despite Q4's typical worker shortage period. Labour market tightness eased but remained elevated above pre-COVID levels, while women's employment progressed faster than men's, narrowing gender gaps. Countries maintained rates through aging workforce mobilization, targeted upskilling programs, and dynamic social protection systems that prevented cyclical unemployment during winter quarters.

⚕️ Australia's Health Workforce Has Increased by >35%

Australia’s health workforce expanded by over 35% between 2013 and 2022, with allied health professions showing the fastest growth of nearly 70%. This increase reflects technological advancements and the diversification of roles such as physician assistants and radiation therapists. Nurses and midwives remain the largest group within the sector. However, despite this strong overall growth, Australia continues to experience persistent workforce shortages particularly among nurses and medical practitioners highlighting the ongoing challenge of meeting rising healthcare demands.

🤖 Netherlands Led European Countries in ICT Exports

Netherlands dominates European tech exports at €96.8B, outpacing Germany by 55% as digital innovation drives growth. Dutch startups secured €3.1B in venture capital in 2024, with companies like Mews and DataSnipper achieving unicorn status. Despite world-class connectivity which attracts global firms, growth faces headwinds as worker shortages limit expansion. The 204.5M euro AiNed program launched in 2021, running through until 2027, helps address these talent gaps and sustain momentum. 

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