The European Union has identified the digital skills gap as a critical barrier to economic growth and innovation. According to recent studies, there will be a critical shortage of ICT specialists in the next few years, highlighting the urgent need for targeted educational programmes to develop these skills. Bearing this in mind, this project aims to create the Virtual Worlds Consortium, a Consortium made of academic institutions and industry partners, to address this critical gap by establishing a comprehensive educational framework that combines academic rigour with practical industry experience. This initiative is designed to foster a new generation of digital specialists proficient in creating, managing, and innovating within virtual environments.

Using the strengths of our institution – ISTEC LISBON, of the partner universities, industry leaders, and research organisations, the Consortium will deliver a comprehensive and specialised Master’s programme, advanced training modules, and a Summer School, all dedicated to virtual worlds. This multifaceted approach ensures that students receive comprehensive training, combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience and industry insights. The collaboration among academic institutions and industry partners will enhance the quality of training and ensure that the curriculum remains relevant and aligned with the latest technological advancements and market needs.

The Master’s programme in Virtual Innovation, designed to be completed over two years, will provide students with in-depth knowledge and practical skills in VR and AR technologies. The curriculum will cover various topics, from the fundamentals of virtual worlds to advanced techniques in immersive experience creation and virtual world design. In the final semester, students can apply what they have learned in real-world settings through internships with partner organisations, gaining invaluable industry experience and enhancing their employability.

In addition to the Master’s programme, the Consortium will develop five advanced training self-standing modules. These online modules will allow professionals and students to up-skill or re-skill in specific areas of virtual worlds and innovation, providing flexibility and accessibility to a broader audience. Each module can be taken individually for certification or as part of a cohesive training programme, ensuring learners can tailor their education to their specific needs and career goals.

Furthermore, the Consortium will organise an annual Summer School in Lisbon to complement the educational offerings. This intensive one-week programme will feature morning lectures by academics and industry specialists, followed by afternoon intensive courses based on shortened versions of the self-standing modules. This structure provides participants with theoretical insights and practical skills in a condensed timeframe, fostering a dynamic learning environment and facilitating networking opportunities with peers and industry experts.

Through the combined efforts of ISTEC LISBON and our partners, the Virtual Innovation Consortium aims to create a robust educational ecosystem that addresses the current digital skills gap and anticipates future technological trends and workforce needs. By preparing students and professionals with the expertise required to thrive in the digital economy, the Consortium will contribute significantly to the European Union’s objectives of fostering innovation, competitiveness, and economic growth.