Education and Science, Employment, Innovations, Legislation, Lithuania, Markets and Companies

Robertas Dargis and Dalia Grybauskaite. Vilnius, 7.05.2015. Photo: lrp.lt

According to Grybauskaite, the Government should engage in discussion with employees, employers from various fields and representatives of small businesses.

The meeting focused on the improvement of economic competitiveness, enhancement of science and innovation policies as well as promotion of business and education cooperation.

The president specifically highlighted the necessity to listen to employees' remarks and ensure their social guarantees.

Grybauskaite believes it is time to review labour relations in Lithuania. Amendments to the Labour Code are crucial for Lithuania's economic development and creation of jobs. Therefore Lithuania will be competitive and advanced only if changes of the Labour Code are agreed on jointly by employees, employers and the Government.

Furthermore, the president said that science and innovation policies must be amended and budget funds must be used effectively in order to increase competitiveness and cerate new jobs. At the moment Lithuania uses the European Union funds without a clear strategy in the area of science and innovation. EU support funds amounting to EUR 800 million have been invested into science and innovation in Lithuania. By 2020 EUR 600 million more will be allocated, hence these funds must turn into new inventions, additional jobs and development.

Finally, the president stressed that problems related to preparation and training of specialists are not solved fast enough Development of future employees still does not match market demand. As much as 70% of employers lack skilled workforce, while more than half of young people work in jobs that do not correspond with their qualifications.