The project aimed to enhance the skills development of target beneficiaries (students, potential students, and agricultural producers) by introducing the concepts of Circular Agriculture and Green Growth. It also sought to modernize agricultural curricula, making them more attractive to future students. Additionally, SKILLS focused on creating job opportunities and expanding career prospects in green skills and Circular Agriculture by improving the competencies of the target group. Ultimately, the SKILLS project promoted Circular Agriculture as a sustainable and resilient sector. The SKILLS consortium aimed to increase awareness of Circular Agriculture through a Baseline study on typology and training materials, which included practical know-how and a structured set of tools, modules and digital courses. These resources were designed to help agricultural practitioners shift their mindset and rethink their practices.
The European Union has adopted the circular economy as a key global strategy to advance societies toward the UN's 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This shift moves from the traditional linear model of production and consumption to one that prioritizes resource efficiency. Circular agriculture, a critical part of this approach, impacts not only the agri-food sector but also rural communities, landscapes, and the semi-natural environment. This transition requires a comprehensive management model that integrates all stages of the agri-food system, from production and consumption to waste management, fostering a closed-loop food supply chain. In this context, updates to higher education (HE) curricula are vital, ensuring that agricultural faculties train future professionals in sustainable practices. The SKILLS initiative promotes environmental sustainability, economic growth, and social equity. A key focus is on integrating circular agriculture principles into academic programs, ensuring that future professionals are well-equipped to contribute to a new, more sustainable agricultural era.