Social innovation, societal challenges and new skills
Photo © Adobe Stock/Gohgah
Online
Social innovation, societal challenges and new skills
3–28 November 2025
The course is available in English
In today’s rapidly evolving world, we face unprecedented societal challenges – social and economic inequality, climate change, unemployment, and technological disruptions, among others. These complex issues call for critical thinking perspectives and innovative solutions. Against this background, social innovation stands out as a crucial catalyst for addressing these challenges and fostering new strategies and sustainable solutions that traditional methods often overlook.
The constant demand for innovative and sustainable solutions is closely linked to the necessity of defining and developing new skills. This need has become increasingly evident and is essential for making a significant impact. By thoroughly exploring and cultivating these skills, social innovators can drive meaningful social change and become influential agents of transformation. Join us in this course to acquire the essential skills every social innovator needs to make a lasting difference in the world.
Introduction to the course
This online course aims to provide participants with an introductory knowledge and global understanding of concepts, processes and crosscutting issues that concerns social innovation. In particular, it will explore the intersection of social innovation, societal challenges, and the development of new skills. The course emphasises social innovation as a catalyst for change while fostering future skills, including cognitive, managerial, and entrepreneurial ones, in close connection with the impact of emerging technologies, like AI, and sustainability transition on the labour market. Throughout the module, it would be examined the role of social innovator as agents of change originating from various sectors, including public, civil society, private and third sector, considering their characteristics, operating context, and relation with societal sustainable transition. Through these insights, the course has three main objectives. First, it aims to equip students with a critical thinking approach to examine deeply rooted societal issues. Second, it wants to develop a comprehensive understanding of how social innovation can address these challenges. Finally, it aims to nurture the vital skills needed for the evolving landscape of social change.
Who attends this course?
The course is intended for: - Professionals in public, private and non-profit sectors: individuals keen on developing innovative solutions to address social and environmental challenges. - Officials in public and private sectors: Employees of UN Agencies, foundations, cooperatives and NGOs, and international cooperation sector aiming to contribute to positive societal impact. - Government representatives and policy makers: those looking to implement effective social innovation policies and/or interested in cross-sectoral collaboration to address public issues. - Social entrepreneurs and third-sector innovators: Individuals seeking to embed social impact and sustainability in their initiatives. - Individuals Interested in Social Innovation and Social Entrepreneurship: Those working or interested in these fields and related research. - Lifelong Learners and Career Changers: Individuals seeking to transition into careers focused on social impact and innovation. - Recent University Graduates: Graduates looking to enhance their knowledge and skills in social innovation.
Contents and objectives
WHAT TOPICS DOES THIS COURSE COVER?
This course equips participants with the skills to emerge as leaders in social innovation. This course will cover the following topics:
- Introduction to Social innovation: Definition and scope of social innovation; Explore its historical evolution and its impact on societal progress over time; Understanding its significance in addressing contemporary challenges.
- Theoretical Frameworks: Delve into key concepts and theories related to social innovation.
- Critical Thinking: Analytical techniques and critical theory; Explore methods for identifying and analysing deep-rooted societal issues.
- Assessment of Future Skills: Explore the skills required for the future labour market, and the intersection of future skills with societal challenges.
- Skills Development: Explore the crucial skills for the evolving landscape of social change and social innovation: Cognitive, Managerial and Entrepreneurial.
WHAT WILL I BE ABLE TO DO?
Upon successful completion of the course, participants will be able to:
- Understand Social Innovation: Define social innovation and gain a thorough understanding of its main concepts, principles, and historical context.
- Apply Critical Thinking: Develop methods and skills for identifying and analysing deep-rooted societal issues and propose innovative bottom-up solutions.
- Analyse Key Trends in Future Labour Market Skills: Recognise the skills required for future employment, understanding the evolving demands of the labour market, including the impact of technological advancements and sustainability transitions, and the intersection of future skills with societal challenges.
- Cultivate Essential Skills: Cultivate cognitive skills such as critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability; Developing managerial skills including leadership and strategic planning; Enhancing entrepreneurial skills such as innovation, risk-taking, and resilience.
Certification
At the end of the course, an assessment of knowledge and competencies acquired will be undertaken. The successful completion of this assignment will result in an ITCILO Certificate of Achievement.
