Students, young professionals, entrepreneurs, and members of the wider community explored how environmental, social, and governance principles are reshaping education, careers, and business during an interactive ESG4PMChange lecture at the University of Split.
The event was organised by Sparky solution d.o.o. and introduced participants to the Erasmus+ project “The ESG Imperative for the Project Management World: Alliance for Developing and Empowering Changemakers – ESG4PMChange,” alongside examples from Sparky’s wider portfolio of European and national research, innovation, and education projects.
ESG as an Opportunity for Skills and Innovation
The lecture presented the growing importance of ESG principles across industries and explained how sustainability requirements are influencing project management practices, professional profiles, and educational programmes.
Participants learned about the objectives, target groups, and expected impact of ESG4PMChange, with particular attention given to the competencies that students and professionals will need in an increasingly sustainability-oriented labour market.
Rather than presenting ESG only as a regulatory or compliance requirement, the event highlighted its value as a strategic opportunity for innovation, career development, and more resilient business practices.
Preparing Students for a Changing Labour Market
A key part of the discussion focused on the role of higher education institutions and curricula in preparing students for ESG-driven changes in employment and professional practice.
Participants were encouraged to consider how ESG principles could influence their future careers, study choices, and entrepreneurial activities. The lecture connected ESG knowledge with employability, future-ready skills, and the development of professional profiles capable of responding to new market expectations.
Special attention was given to small and medium-sized enterprises and the IT sector. Topics included access to European funding and investors, client and partner expectations, sustainable digital solutions, talent development, and long-term business resilience.
Practical Examples Spark Further Interest
The event brought together 18 participants, including university students from technical, business, and interdisciplinary study programmes, young professionals, early-stage entrepreneurs, and members of the public interested in sustainability, innovation, and European projects.
Participants particularly valued the practical examples from active EU-funded projects, the clear explanation of ESG beyond theory and regulation, and the direct connection between ESG competencies, employability, and future career opportunities.
Several students expressed interest in learning more about ESG-oriented project work, European initiatives, potential collaboration, and internship opportunities.
Extending ESG4PMChange Beyond the Classroom
The event increased awareness of ESG4PMChange among students and the wider community through direct communication with academic and student networks, promotion within the Technology Park ecosystem, and follow-up discussions with participants.
By linking ESG principles with education, employability, entrepreneurship, SMEs, and the IT industry, the lecture supported the ESG4PMChange mission of preparing future changemakers for sustainable project management and the evolving needs of the labour market.