This subtheme focuses on the dynamic needs of individuals and groups in an ever-changing world. It underscores the importance of making guidance services more accessible to diverse groups and tailoring them to meet demand and individual needs. The focus is also on fostering the acquisition of career management skills (CMS).

Possible questions include e.g.

• How to ensure that guidance services are accessible for all and benefit everyone?
• How to identify and reach the groups most in need?
• How to support individuals in acquiring career management skills in education, working life and in guidance services?

This subtheme addresses digitalisation in guidance services. It explores the application of technology in career guidance, including online platforms, social media, artificial intelligence, and other digital media. The emphasis is on discussing how the power of technology can be harnessed to provide more flexible, efficient, ethical and engaging guidance services and to reach a wider population in the digital era.

Possible questions include e.g.

• In what areas of guidance can artificial intelligence (AI) be applied, and how can AI improve the overall quality of guidance services?
• In what areas of guidance do digital services work best? Where is human interaction most needed?
• In what can labour market intelligence/information be best utilised, and what are the challenges and opportunities?

This subtheme focuses on building, maintaining, and enhancing the quality of guidance services in times of change. It covers the development of new standards, initiatives, practices, and methodologies to ensure that services are relevant, effective, and high quality. Central to this theme is continuous improvement, professionalism, and the integration of innovative practices in guidance.

Possible questions include e.g.

• How can we create more mobility in the career paths of guidance professionals, allowing seamless transitions between different sectors and roles nationally and internationally?
• In what ways can we establish and update ‘minimum competences’ for guidance professionals to ensure and standardise the quality of services provided?

This subtheme highlights the role of guidance in fostering equity and an inclusive and equitable environment that respects and celebrates diversity. Central to this theme is the exploration of how guidance practices and policies can be designed and implemented to dismantle systemic barriers, support diverse identities, and facilitate equal opportunities and decent work for all individuals.

Possible questions include e.g.

• In what ways do stereotypes influence the perceptions of guidance professionals? How can these biases be addressed?
• What more can be done to address cultural diversity, equality of opportunity and wellbeing?

This subtheme underscores the relevance of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to guidance, in particular its social justice values. It addresses sustainable practices in guidance services, highlighting the importance of environmentally conscious and socially responsible approaches. The emphasis is on discussing how guidance services can actively promote a greener economy and sustainable workplace practices, thereby contributing to the environmental, economic, and social well-being and future of the global community.

Possible questions include e.g.

• How can guidance services promote sustainability and social responsibility?

• How can social justice’s relationship to sustainability be demonstrated in practice? 

• What strategies can be employed within guidance services to align individual career aspirations with the broader objectives of environmental sustainability?

This subtheme highlights the importance of strategic leadership, collaboration and co-ordination among the various sectors engaged in guidance, such as education, employment, youth and social services. It delves into the essential elements that lead to successful partnerships and networks to create a more holistic and systemic approach to guidance.

Possible questions include e.g.

• How to facilitate collaboration among guidance sectors at national, regional and local levels?
• What constitutes a genuinely integrated multisectoral guidance service? What is needed to build such a services?

This subtheme underscores the importance of using research and data to inform guidance systems and practices. It involves examining the latest evidence on what works in guidance. This theme covers the use of data and research to guide decision-making, policy development and guidance practice.

Possible questions include e.g.

• How can we measure and analyse the quality, impact, and return of social investment of guidance services?
• What are examples of effective methods for collecting, storing, and processing data related to guidance services?