The first IRU Academy Accredited Training Institute (ATI) e-meeting of the year brought together more than 45 participants from around 30 countries to discuss the future of professional road transport training, with a strong focus on driver mobility, dangerous goods transport and recent IRU Academy developments.
The recent ATI meeting underscored the growing pressure on the sector to attract and retain professional drivers.
In Europe, as in many other regions around the globe, driver shortages remain a major concern, driven by an ageing workforce and an insufficient inflow of new talent. EU-supported initiatives are seeking to improve recruitment pathways and mobility opportunities for third-country drivers.
Against this backdrop, the ATI network has a key role to play in supporting the alignment of training standards, strengthening capacity building, and facilitating the recognition and integration of drivers across markets.
New studies conducted by IRU, including STEER2EU and Skilled Driver Mobility for Europe (SDM4EU), have identified significant structural gaps in recruitment practices and professionalisation models between the EU and third countries.
Participants also discussed the Modernising Road Transport (MRT) project, supported by the European Union through the Global Gateway strategy. MRT aims to support the modernisation of road transport systems along corridors primarily in Central Asia and West Africa through reforms focused on professionalisation, digitalisation, transport facilitation and the green transition.
Dangerous goods transport
Particular attention was given to training modernisation and digital learning. Following discussions within the United Nations ADR Working Party, remote ADR training and e-learning are expected to be formally introduced from 2027, marking an important step in expanding access to professional dangerous goods training.
New certification scheme
Another major focus was the rollout of the new IRU Academy Certification Scheme, which introduces a more flexible and harmonised structure designed to respond to growing demand for internationally recognised professional qualifications.
Built around three certification levels – Completion, Competence and Professional Competence – the framework strengthens consistency and quality across the ATI network while allowing adaptation to local market needs.
IRU Certify Platform
Discussions also highlighted the importance of robust examination standards supporting the new certification scheme and in ensuring the credibility, transparency and international recognition of qualifications delivered through the network.
Participants were introduced to the new IRU Certify Platform, which integrates training, examination and certification into a single digital system.
A growing network
The IRU Academy’s network of over 50 ATIs across the globe trains and certifies thousands of mobility and transport logistic professionals every year to improve safety, efficiency and sustainability.
The network of transport associations and operators, government agencies, vocational schools and universities guarantees the highest training standards for road transport professionals.
If you are a training institute, discover how you can join the network and deliver IRU trainings and certifications.
Are you a driver or other road transport professional interested in IRU training?