Euratex proudly launches the EU co-funded project Aequalis-4-TCLF, bolstering the textile, clothing, leather, and footwear (TCLF) sectors' upskilling and reskilling efforts under the EU Pact for Skills. With 19 partners primarily from Eastern and Northern Europe, the four-year initiative aims to enhance the skills of workers in the TCLF industry.

Building upon the blueprint of the Smart4TCLF project and complementing the Metaskills4TCLF initiative, Aequalis-4-TCLF emphasizes forging strong ties with regional and local entities to amplify skills initiatives. 

It also seeks to establish a pan-European Network of TCLF vocational education and training (VET) and higher education (HE) providers. By conducting a skills gap analysis, the project will formulate new national skills strategies in seven countries, tailoring them to address regional needs while promoting diversity and combating discrimination in the TCLF industries.

Euratex's Director General, Dirt Vantyghem, lauds the initiative as a tangible realization of the TCLF Pact for Skills signed with the European Commission two years ago. Vantyghem emphasizes the crucial role of addressing the skills dimension in fostering a competitive TCLF industry in Europe.