The JA Europe Deep Tech/AI Program aims to address the skills and innovation gaps in the Agri-Food sector by implementing a cutting-edge initiative aligned with the EIT Competency Framework and Digital Deep Tech Initiative (DDTI). This program will equip 18,000 students aged 16-25 in VET, secondary schools and higher education institutions with essential skills, including AI, technology management, entrepreneurship, and problem-solving, across ten European countries: Albania, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, France, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Romania, Spain, and Ukraine.
In line with the European Commission’s Digital Education Action Plan, the initiative focuses on preparing youth for a digitally driven future by enhancing their AI and deep tech capabilities. The program promotes inclusivity, offering students from underserved regions access to high-quality digital education and empowering them with the critical skills needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
The initiative also aligns with the EIT DDTI objectives, fostering leadership, entrepreneurship, and innovation within the Agri-Food sector. By building a workforce skilled in AI and deep tech, the program addresses both the immediate and future needs of the sector, contributing to the European Green Deal’s sustainability goals. Through its inclusive and collaborative approach, JA Europe is actively shaping a digitally ready generation, ensuring they are prepared to lead Europe’s digital and technological transformation.
The work started by updating the curriculum and adding industry-specific content to strengthen the program. The consortium members met in Lisbon in June 2024 to discuss the implementation timeline and review key milestones.
JA Europe’s local chapters are collaborating with schools, industry partners, and other stakeholders to implement a “train-the-trainer” model, ensuring that identified master trainers are equipped to deliver the teachers` training in all countries. This approach ensures scalability and sustainable impact while securing participation from diverse student groups, thus contributing to bridging the digital divide.
Project Partners:
JA Europe Contact for EIT DTTI Action in Food project:
Emma Kiraly (emma.kiraly@jaeurope.org)