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Training for Jobseekers: A Strategic Response to Labour Shortages?

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  • Héloïse Burlat

Abstract

Labour shortages persist in many countries, partly due to skill mismatches between job seekers and in-demand occupations. While prior research has examined the effect of training on reemployment, little is known about its role in addressing shortages. This paper identifies training programmes specifically targeted at shortage occupations and evaluates their impact on employment in these jobs across two different economic contexts: during the COVID-19 crisis and in the subsequent recovery period. Using Dynamic Inverse Probability Weighting, we find no significant medium-term effect in either context, except for men and minimum social income recipients during the COVID-19 crisis. Extending the horizon to 42 months for the 2019 cohort reveals a positive effect of targeted training, with an average of 40 additional days employed in shortage occupations. These findings suggest that training focused on shortage occupations may help mitigate labour shortages during downturns but appears less effective when labour demand is strong, informing the design of active labour market policies.

Suggested Citation

  • Héloïse Burlat, 2026. "Training for Jobseekers: A Strategic Response to Labour Shortages?," Working Papers of Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, Ghent University, Belgium 26/1146, Ghent University, Faculty of Economics and Business Administration.
    • Handle: RePEc:rug:rugwps:26/1146
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    File URL: http://wps-feb.ugent.be/Papers/wp_26_1146.pdf
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • C21 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Single Equation Models; Single Variables - - - Cross-Sectional Models; Spatial Models; Treatment Effect Models
    • J68 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Mobility, Unemployment, Vacancies, and Immigrant Workers - - - Public Policy
    • J08 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - General - - - Labor Economics Policies
    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity

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