PortAbility is a Centre of Vocational Excellence (CoVE), led by CIOFS-FP ETS (Italy), aimed at transforming the vocational education and training (VET) landscape in port city regions. The initiative aims to contribute to the general objectives of the European CoVEs Funds by developing innovative strategies and methods that position vocational education and training (VET) not only as a contributor but as a driver for the economic diversification and reconversion of Port City Regions towards a ‘Just Transition’. This transition is integral to the shift towards a climate-neutral, digital, and inclusive economy. 

This EU funded CoVE programme will run from 2025 to 2029 and involves 23 partners from 5 country clusters, including Italy (Taranto), Spain (Andalusia, focused on Seville and Málaga), Greece (Volos, Thessaly), Cyprus (multiple islands), and Germany (Hamburg). The German cluster provides valuable insights from the port transition in Hamburg, which is already far advanced, offering best practices and examples that will enhance the PortAbility network. 

PortAbility will focus on several core topics: 

• Systematic and comparative analysis of regional and national factors for port transitions and diversification (including green, digital, and social aspects). 

• Development of a training framework, including pathways, microcredential systems, and learning infrastructures. 

• Pilot empowerment and capacity building, including upskilling and reskilling pathways. 

• Creation of an Innovation and Governance Hub to facilitate continuous dialogue between COVE actors on policies and measures that support social innovation and inclusion in port transformation processes. 

In Spain it will play a central role in addressing the pressing challenges faced by the cities of Málaga and Sevilla in terms of social inclusion, economic diversification, and sustainable development. 

The Challenges in Málaga and Sevilla 

Both Málaga and Sevilla, two key port cities in Andalusia, are undergoing significant transitions. While Málaga has made great strides in diversifying its economy, embracing sectors such as technology, digital innovation, and sustainable tourism, there remains a need to strengthen vocational training pathways to meet the demands of these emerging industries. Similarly, Sevilla faces a different set of challenges, such as high unemployment and a skills gap in the wake of its transformation towards renewable energy and logistics. These challenges highlight the need for a more inclusive approach to VET that caters to both high-skill and low-skill workers, including vulnerable groups. 

The PortAbility partnership aims to address these issues by improving the vocational education system, upskilling the workforce, and fostering social inclusion through tailored training programs that align with the specific needs of the port economy and green transition. 

Rinova’s Role in PortAbility 

As the lead organisation for the Spanish cluster, Rinova will spearhead the development of the PortAbility Blueprint, a comprehensive framework designed to modernise VET practices. By engaging local stakeholders, including VET providers, businesses, and port authorities, Rinova will ensure that the blueprint reflects the unique needs of Málaga and Sevilla. This will also involve defining skills foresight, addressing social inclusion, and ensuring the integration of green and digital skills within vocational training pathways. 

Rinova will also contribute to other programme activities, including upskilling and reskilling pathways, innovation and governance, and dissemination. By collaborating with key partners in Spain, Rinova aims to create lasting impacts on the local economy and workforce. 

Rinova will work closely with the PortAbility partners in Spain, including: 

• INCOMA (International Consulting and Mobility Agency SOES): Specialising in social innovation and research, INCOMA will organise events and workshops, focusing on innovative VET practices. 

• Cámara Oficial de Comercio, Industria, Servicios y Navegación de Sevilla (CCSEV): The Seville Chamber of Commerce, which will play a pivotal role in supporting local economic development and business collaboration. 

• Autoridad Portuaria de Sevilla (Port Authority of Seville): Offering insights into the port sector’s workforce needs, this partner will ensure the VET framework aligns with industry requirements. 

• Instituto de Educación Secundaria Politécnico (IES Politécnico): A key educational institution in Seville, contributing to the implementation and testing of the VET framework. 

• Empresa Municipal de Iniciativas y Actividades (EMIYAE): Supporting economic initiatives and project dissemination in Málaga and Seville, focusing on local business engagement. 

A Vision for the Future 

Through its involvement in the PortAbility project, Rinova is committed to promoting social inclusion, economic resilience, and environmental sustainability in the port economy sector. By developing more inclusive training pathways, promoting green skills, and fostering cross-sector collaboration, Rinova aims to equip the workforce in Málaga and Sevilla with the tools they need to thrive in the future economy. 

Stay tuned for updates on the PortAbility project as we work together to build a more inclusive and sustainable future for the regions of Málaga and Sevilla. 

The PortAbility CoVE has been co-financed by the European Union. Its contents and materials are the sole responsibility of its authors. The European Commission cannot be held responsible for any use, which may be made of the information contained therein. Find details on the EC wesbite here: https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/projects/search/details/101194158