First Interregional Study Visit for TALENT4S3 Takes Place in Extremadura, Spain
The TALENT4S3 project launched its first interregional study visit in Badajoz, Extremadura, Spain, on November 12–13, 2024. This initiative brought together project partners from eight European countries—Spain, Finland, Ireland, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Romania, and Slovenia—to explore innovative public policies designed to attract and retain talent in regions experiencing brain drain and economic challenges.
Hosted at the premises of FUNDECYT-PCTEX, the visit commenced with a welcome address by Javier de Francisco Morcillo, Secretary-General for Science, Technology, and Innovation, representing Extremadura’s commitment to fostering talent attraction and retention. TALENT4S3, a European project co-funded by the Interreg Europe programme, is dedicated to improving policy instruments for human capital development in alignment with Smart Specialisation Strategies.
Key Activities and Highlights:
The two-day event featured a comprehensive workshop where partners analysed the conditions of their respective regions, sharing data and strategies to combat talent loss. Key insights were drawn from the presentation of the “Talent Monitor,” an evidence-based tool for understanding brain drain dynamics, as well as a deep dive into Extremadura’s RIS3 policy framework.
Participants gained exposure to successful regional initiatives through a series of presentations, including:
- Extremadura in the World: A platform connecting citizens abroad with opportunities to return, network, and contribute to the region.
- Tech Talent: A programme linking highly skilled professionals with local technology-driven businesses.
- Talent4Iberia: A postdoctoral fellowship initiative advancing research excellence in energy storage.
- The Pre-Incubator: A platform for university and vocational students to turn academic ideas into innovative business ventures.
A notable highlight of Day 1 was a visit to the Iberian Centre for Research in Energy Storage (CIIAE) in Cáceres. This pioneering institution exemplifies regional collaboration in the green energy sector, offering state-of-the-art facilities and creating skilled employment opportunities in Extremadura.
Reflections from Partners:
Rhiannon Carey Bates, EU Projects Officer at the Southern Regional Assembly, commended Extremadura’s innovative approach:
“This visit showcased how proactive measures, such as those in Extremadura, can effectively combat brain drain while driving regional development. The visit to CIIAE demonstrated the potential of coordinated efforts in addressing global challenges like energy sustainability, all while fostering local talent.”
Moving Forward:
The study visit concluded with a wrap-up session and project follow-up meeting, solidifying next steps for interregional collaboration. As TALENT4S3 continues, it aims to leverage these shared experiences to create actionable, scalable solutions to talent retention challenges across Europe.
For more information, contact:
Dr Rhiannon Carey Bates
EU Projects Officer, Southern Regional Assembly
Email: rcareybates@southernassembly.ie
Tel: +353 (0) 87 348 3705
