A strategic framework for European cooperation in education and training ('ET 2020')

On 12 May the Council of the European Union adopted a new strategic framework for co-operation between EU Member States to reform their education and training systems ('ET 2020'). To us working as professionals in Europe, it is important to have knowledge of this European strategy and vision. The conclusions identify both immediate priorities for 2009-11 and long-term challenges for the decade ahead. The tools used to meet them include new education and training benchmarks for monitoring progress across Europe.

EU education and training policy has been given added impetus since the adoption of the Lisbon Strategy in 2000. It underlines that knowledge, and the innovation it sparks, are the EU's most valuable assets. By agreement in Barcelona in March 2002, the 'Education and Training 2010' work programme established for the first time a solid framework for European cooperation in the field of eduaction and training.

The new strategic vision and framework 'ET 2020' addresses four strategic objectives:
- Making lifelong learning and mobility a reality;
- Improving the quality and efficiency of education and training;
- Promoting equality, social cohesion and active citizenship;
- Enhancing creativity and innovation, including entrepreneurship, at all levels of eduaction and training.

The recent decision describes what work needs to pursued and in which areas cooperation shall be developed during the first cycle 2009-2011. It also includes reference levels of European average performance, so called European benchmarks.

Link: http://ec.europa.eu/education/news/news1383_en.htm