EU Food Pact addresses one of Europe’s most important future challenges: preparing farmers, technicians, students and businesses for the transformation of the food system. Climate change, digitalisation and the circular economy are already reshaping the sector. However, using new technologies and production models effectively requires environmental, digital, technical and entrepreneurial skills.
The agrifood sector plays a major role in the European economy. More than 11 million farms and 22,000 agricultural cooperatives support around 22 million jobs in rural areas. In addition, 289,000 food-processing companies employ another 4.5 million people. These figures from the European Commission show how strongly education can influence Europe’s economic, social and environmental future.
EU Food Pact and the digital divide in agriculture
Agricultural digitalisation is advancing, but progress remains uneven. According to data published by Eurostat, only 43% of European Union farms reported internet access in 2023. Just one in ten used farm management information systems, while approximately 7% used robotics.
The economic size of a farm also makes a difference. Around 74% of farms with a standard output of at least €100,000 reported internet access. In contrast, the figure fell to 21% among farms with an output below €2,000.
Therefore, small businesses and rural communities face a greater risk of being left behind. EU Food Pact highlights the need to connect digital and environmental knowledge. Sensors, monitoring systems, robotics and precision-farming tools can support better production. Nevertheless, these technologies create real value only when workers and businesses know how to adapt them to local needs.
Turning knowledge into practical experience
Education and training are still frequently divided into separate areas. Some programmes focus on sustainable agriculture. Others concentrate on digital technologies or business management. However, the sector needs professionals who can connect these different fields.
Mobile Phygital Learning Labs offer one possible solution. “Phygital” combines physical experiences with digital learning. These mobile centres could bring advanced training directly to rural communities. Virtual reality, simulations and digital twins could help participants practise using new technologies without disrupting normal business activities.
On-farm demonstrations and peer learning can also turn theory into practical experience. The European Union Common Agricultural Policy Network identifies on-farm demonstrations as an effective way for farmers, advisers and researchers to exchange knowledge and test practical solutions.
European events supporting new skills
International events allow participants to compare experiences and develop new partnerships. On 21 April 2026, the AgriFood Pact for Skills Annual Event brought businesses, education providers and European organisations together in Brussels to discuss the future agrifood workforce.
The international symposium The Farmers of Tomorrow, scheduled in Zaragoza for 30 September and 1 October 2026, will explore skills, employment and generational renewal.
Furthermore, the EU Agri-Food Days, taking place in Brussels and online on 8–9 December 2026, will create another meeting point for farmers, researchers, businesses, civil society and European policymakers.
How EU Food Pact contributes
EU Food Pact promotes an approach in which sustainability, innovation and education support each other. The project aims to make learning more practical, interdisciplinary and accessible. It also encourages cooperation between agricultural regions, food businesses, research centres, technology providers and local communities.
Rethinking skills means connecting training with real workplace needs. It also means reducing digital inequalities and using circular-economy practices to transform waste and production by-products into valuable resources.
For further context, read APS Polygonal’s previous update on sustainable skills for the future of the food sector.
Visit the official project website to discover its objectives, partners and activities, and continue following the latest EU Food Pact developments.
