“For the last sixty years, the Centre has been at the heart of learning and capacity development for social justice, serving ILO constituents and partners across the multilateral system. It is a great occasion, a privilege, to reflect on the journey so far, and even more importantly, to look ahead.” With these words, Ambassador Vincenzo Grassi, Permanent Representative of Italy to the United Nations in Geneva, launched a high-level conversation on the role and evolution of the International Training Centre of the International Labour Organisation (ITCILO).

The event took place on 11 June 2025, in the Engagement Zone of the 113th International Labour Conference (ILC), as part of the Centre’s 60th anniversary celebrations. Moderated by Ambassador Grassi, the panel featured Christophe Perrin, ITCILO Director, Celeste Drake, ILO Deputy Director-General, and Marina Calderone, Italy’s Minister of Labour and Social Policies. Together, they reflected on the Centre’s global reach, impact, and relevance for the future of work.

Director Perrin described how the Centre’s training activities, -reaching more than 190 countries-, are not just about knowledge transfer, but about shaping policies and institutions. “It’s also about strengthening institutions, changing behaviours, and putting principles into practice,” he said. As innovation and digital transformation reshape the landscape of learning and work, Perrin stressed that the Centre is not standing still. “Technologies are tools for inclusion, agility and scale,” he said, explaining how the ITCILO uses digital tools to reach broader audiences and tailor learning to real-world needs.

Deputy Director-General Drake noted that the future of work isn’t some distant idea, it’s already taking shape in Turin. “The ITCILO is leading by example, showing how innovative approaches to training are being implemented today,” she said. Technology, she stressed, must serve the ILO’s mission and values. From classroom applications to chatbots, these tools are used to build practical capacity and strengthen institutions. “The Centre is turning concerns about AI into opportunities, helping constituents problem-solve, adapt, and grow.” DDG Drake also underscored that innovation means more than using new tools: “It’s pursuing improvement with purpose. And with the support of Italy and our constituents, that’s exactly what the Centre is doing.”

During the conversation, Minister Calderone reaffirmed Italy’s strong support for the Centre as a hub for skills, dialogue, and inclusive partnerships. “The ITC is the place where social dialogue happens, and where the future of work takes shape through learning and cooperation,” she said. She drew connections with Italy’s G7 Presidency and national initiatives like the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) and New Skills Fund (Fondo Nuove Competenze), all aimed at supporting skills development in response to green and digital transitions. “Technology must improve safety, inclusion and skills without ever losing sight of the people,” she said in her concluding remarks. “The ITCILO plays a crucial role in preparing us for these changes, and Italy remains fully committed to its mission.”

To watch the full recording, click here.