RSG Meeting in Waterford Marks a Major Step Forward
Bringing together experts from government, education, and local communities, the meeting addressed how to tackle the ongoing challenge of talent loss through collaboration and strategic planning. TALENT4S3, a three-year Interreg Europe initiative, aims to retain and attract talent to the region by improving Smart Specialisation Strategies and aligning efforts with the Southern Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy (RSES).
The event kicked off with an introduction to the TALENT4S3 project, highlighting its primary goals. Representatives from various sectors examined the root causes of the region's talent exodus and explored practical solutions. Attendees were updated on the Learning Region strategy and the OECD's insights on regional attractiveness, helping to identify opportunities for boosting innovation, sustainability, and competitiveness.
Discussions also focused on Smart Specialisation Strategies (S3), with insights from regional experts on best practices. The Learning City Project, a success story from Cork, was presented as a model for fostering knowledge-sharing and collaboration. Interactive group discussions followed, where participants shared their experiences, exchanged ideas, and discussed what has worked — and what hasn’t — in preventing talent drain in the Southern Region.
David Kelly, Director of the Southern Regional Assembly, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating: “‘TALENT4S3 is a critical initiative for our Region, ensuring that we leverage our collective talents and resources to build a sustainable and prosperous future. Today's meeting highlights our shared commitment to making the Southern Region a leader in innovation and sustainable development.”
The meeting concluded on a high note, with stakeholders committing to ongoing collaboration through regular follow-up meetings. The continued engagement will be key to ensuring that the TALENT4S3 project’s objectives are successfully realized and that the Southern Region becomes a beacon of innovation and opportunity.