Education and Training Monitor 2025

The Education and Training Monitor 2025 was launched during the European Education and Skills Summit 2025, providing the latest insights into education and training systems across Europe — from early childhood education to adult learning and skills development.

This year, the Education and Training Monitor 2025 takes a closer look at STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and explores key questions for policymakers and practitioners:

• Are women entering STEM?
• Does digital learning improve performance?
• Does work-based learning strengthen links between VET and higher education?
• Are more international students choosing Europe?
• Has adult literacy improved over the decade?

For EARLALL and its member regions, these questions are highly relevant as they reflect ongoing challenges and opportunities in regional education, vocational training, and lifelong learning.

Regional Relevance: What the Monitor Tells Us

• STEM and Gender Equality: Persistent gaps in STEM enrolment, particularly among women, highlight the need for regional initiatives to make STEM fields more attractive, inclusive, and connected to local labor market needs.
• Adult Learning & Lifelong Learning: The report shows that adult learning participation remains uneven across regions, reinforcing the importance of upskilling and reskilling initiatives to address demographic changes and workforce transitions.
• VET and Work-Based Learning: Stronger links between vocational education, higher education, and international mobility are crucial to boost innovation and ensure skills are recognized across borders.
• Digital and Green Transitions: The Monitor underscores how education systems must support digitalisation, sustainability, and green skills — all core priorities for EARLALL in 2026.

The Education and Training Monitor 2025 is a vital tool for regional policymakers, VET providers, and lifelong learning stakeholders. EARLALL will continue to support members in turning insights into action, fostering innovation, cross-border cooperation, and inclusive skills strategies across Europe.

Explore the full report: Education and Training Monitor 2025

The European Commission has recently unveiled its Culture Compass for Europe, a strategic framework designed to place culture at the heart of EU policy and strengthen the role of cultural and creative sectors across regions. The initiative aims to support artists, cultural professionals, and regional authorities, while promoting Europe’s cultural diversity, heritage, and innovation.

Why It Matters for Regional Development and Skills

Culture is more than an expression of identity—it is also a driver of regional development, social cohesion, and economic resilience. The Culture Compass emphasizes fair working conditions for artists, empowerment of cultural professionals, and stronger connections between culture, sustainability, and digital innovation.
For EARLALL and its member regions, these priorities closely align with our 2026 strategic focus, including:

• Fostering innovation in education through AI, digital, and green transitions, which can transform creative practices and cultural production.
• Enhancing the attractiveness and retention in VET and adult learning, ensuring that creative and cultural professions remain appealing career paths.
• Strengthening governance and cross-border recognition in VET and lifelong learning, which can support mobility and collaborative projects in the cultural sector.
• Contributing to the “Union of Skills”, ensuring that skills development in the creative industries is recognized and valued at regional and European levels.
• Promoting democratic engagement, citizenship, and social inclusion, leveraging culture as a tool for civic participation and social cohesion.

On January 28, 2025, EARLALL explored this area through our sectoral skills webinar on Creative and Cultural Industries, which examined the challenges and opportunities for vocational education, training, and lifelong learning in the sector. The Compass reinforces the need to equip cultural professionals with the skills required for innovation, entrepreneurship, and cross-border collaboration.

Key Actions of the Culture Compass

The Commission proposes a series of flagship actions to implement the Compass, including:

• An EU Artists Charter promoting fair working conditions and recognition for cultural professionals.
• A European Prize for Performing Arts to celebrate excellence in the sector.
• A Youth Cultural Ambassadors Network to engage young people and expand access to culture.
• A new EU Cultural Data Hub to improve data collection, analysis, and knowledge sharing.
• Initiatives linking culture, digitalisation, and sustainability, including the use of AI in the creative industries.

Opportunities for Regions

The Compass offers opportunities for regional authorities to support cultural education, strengthen creative VET programmes, and foster innovation in local cultural ecosystems. By leveraging these initiatives, regions can enhance the attractiveness of cultural and creative sectors, create jobs, and contribute to sustainable and inclusive development.

EARLALL will continue to monitor the implementation of the Culture Compass and explore ways for member regions to engage with these initiatives, building on our previous work in the creative and cultural industries sector.

Read more: European Commission Press Release

The EU Knowledge Valorization event “From Knowledge to Impact: Shaping Europe’s Next Innovation Wave” took place on 13 November at the Albert Borschette Research Centre, gathering leading experts, policymakers, and stakeholders from across Europe. Organised by the Directorate-General for Research and Innovation of the European Commission, the event explored how Europe can accelerate the transformation of research outcomes into real-world impact.

Investing in Europe’s Innovation Potential

The agenda addressed vital topics for Europe’s next innovation wave, including the Horizon Europe proposals, the EU Startup and Scaleup Strategy, and the recently adopted Research and Technology Infrastructures Strategy.

Ekaterina Zaharieva, Commissioner for Startups, Research and Innovation, opened the event with a video message, encouraging greater investment in European startups and collaborative innovation with international reach.

Following her opening, Maria Cristina Russo, Director of the Prosperity Directorate at DG Research and Innovation, underlined the importance of strengthening entrepreneurial ecosystems through best practices, market-driven strategies and financial support mechanisms that accelerate knowledge valorization.

From Research to Market

The discussion “From Research to Market: Towards a Blueprint on Licensing and Spin-off Creation”, moderated by Vladia Borissova from the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) Academy, focused on how inconsistent licensing practices can slow down the transfer of technology to the market. Christian Stafford, Department Manager at Knowledge Transfer Ireland, stressed the need to foster the international capacity of startups, while Isabel Rocha, Vice-Rector for Research, Innovation and Value Creation at NOVA University of Lisbon, presented NOVA’s multilingual materials and support structures that facilitate effective knowledge transfer and collaboration with companies.

The event continued featuring engaging sessions on connecting innovative companies to research and technology infrastructures, followed by the CEN-CENELEC Standards & Innovation Awards Ceremony, showcasing outstanding contributions to European standardization and innovation.

Strengthening Valorization Across Europe

In her closing remarks, Maria Cristina Russo highlighted the shared commitment to bridging the gap between research and the market. EARLALL remains committed to strengthening Europe’s innovation ecosystem by monitoring policies, contributing to dialogue and sharing regional perspectives on the challenges and best practices that support the development of skills and capacity for a more innovative Europe.

From 5–7 November 2025, EARLALL’s Annual meeting took place in Mechelen, kindly hosted by GO! Education of the Flemish Community and Crescendo CVO, and led by EARLALL’s Presidency, Region Västra Götaland (VGR). This year’s theme focused on the attractiveness of Vocational Education and Training (VET) systems, a topic widely discussed at the European level.

The Annual meeting serves as an opportunity for the network to reflect on the past year, present upcoming activities and plan future work. This year’s meeting was opened by Marleen Mast, Director of Crescendo CVO, followed by Madeleine Jonsson, President of the Environment and Regional Development Committee of Region Västra Götaland and current EARLALL President.

Jonsson underlined the importance of strengthening the attractiveness of VET systems through a video message, reaffirming EARLALL’s commitment to influencing policy. Jonsson continued by highlighting EARLALL’s upcoming 25th Anniversary, to be celebrated in June 2026 in Brussels.

The meeting proceeded with the approval of the minutes from the previous General Assembly, followed by messages from the Board. Members were presented with the 2025 Activity Report and Executive Summary, showcased through a video presentation. The Action Plan for 2026 will focus on monitoring and evaluating the implementation of EARLALL’s strategic priorities and will introduce eight key themes for the year ahead:

1. Enhancing the Attractiveness and Retention in VET and Adult Learning Amidst Demographic Changes
2. Strengthening Governance and Cross-Border Recognition in VET and Lifelong Learning
3. Navigating the Future of EU Funding: MFF, Cohesion Policy, and Competitiveness Funds
4. Contributing to the “Union of Skills”
5. Promoting Democratic Engagement, Citizenship, and Social Inclusion in Lifelong Learning
6. Advancing STEM and Gender Equality in Regional Lifelong Learning Ecosystems
7. Fostering Innovation in Education through AI, Digital, and Green Transitions
8. Supporting Quality and Recognition of Apprenticeship Systems

The meeting continued with updates from EARLALL’s four Working Groups (WGs), each presenting their ongoing work and future activities aligned with the network’s strategic priorities:

• Working Group on Mobility, introduced by Borås Stad and Movetia, presented Mobility Matchmaking initiatives across Europe in Borås, Barcelona, Vestland County Council, and Taith, as well as the upcoming factsheet on mobility opportunities for people with fewer opportunities.
• WG on Skills and Labour Market, led by the Ministry for Education and Vocational Training of Catalonia, highlighted cooperation with Emilia-Romagna’s Skills Intelligence Team, participation in TRAILS meetings in Slovenia, Greece, and Sweden, and collaboration in LCAMP, including webinars such as “Advanced Manufacturing Skills Analysis: Understanding Skills Challenges and Opportunities in AM Sectors Across European Regions.”
• WG on Youth Policies, presented by the Tuscany Region, shared updates on two ongoing projects focused on empowering youth in European policymaking, including the Startup Meeting in Siena (Italy).
• WG on Lifelong Guidance and Ageing Societies, co-led by Baden-Württemberg and Camilla Winter AB, reported on four active projects, including participation in inclusive labour market workshops and the development of a Factsheet on Higher-Level Apprenticeships.

The EARLALL Academy, coordinated by Camilla Winter AB, successfully delivered five seminars this year and will continue with seven more addressing transversal themes and emerging topics, offering ongoing learning opportunities for members. EARLALL also celebrated the success of its communication and dissemination efforts, marking a 44% increase in LinkedIn engagement. Furthering presenting the logo for EARLALL’s upcoming 25 year anniversary 2026.

Looking ahead, Inge Gorostiaga (DG for Digital Transformation, Basque Government) highlighted LCAMP (Learner Centric Advanced Manufacturing Platform for CoVEs), the first Centre of Vocational Excellence project coordinated by a regional authority, with EARLALL as a proud partner. Further noting that although the EU-funded phase has ended, the work continues through the creation of the LCAMP Alliance, an association that will foster excellence in VET, support innovation and strengthen cooperation among VET centres and regional partners across Europe. She invited all EARLALL regions and their VET centres to join the Alliance, announcing the next LCAMP Conference taking place on 21–23 April 2026 in Vitoria-Gasteiz, offering a key opportunity for regional actors to exchange best practices and shape the future of vocational excellence.

Following the meeting, participants took part in a knowledge-rich workshop co-organised by CVO Crescendo and EARLALL, featuring a diverse range of speakers sharing their work and research. The programme then continued with two days of in-depth study visits. On Thursday, the group visited Technisch Atheneum Keerbergen, where they met with the school’s leadership, explored innovative teaching practices, and joined hands-on workshops—from DiagnoseCar applications in automotive training to initiatives such as VOKA Stempact and VLAIO’s collaboration with education through the Flanders Technology & Innovation Festival.

On Friday, participants visited GO! Busleyden Atheneum’s Stassart Campus in Mechelen. The visit offered insight into the school’s pedagogical model, defense and security training and dual learning pathways, followed by a campus tour and demonstrations showcasing practical learning in fields including culinary arts, security and work-based learning. The study visits offered participants an immersive experience into the world of Vocational Education and Training centers throughout Mechelen and showcased new ways of making VET attractive.

Annual meeting 2025 materials

• EARLALL Annual Report Highlights 2024
• EARLALL Annual Meeting 2025 Highlights, Mechelen

Brussels, 13 November 2025 – The 2025 European Education and Skills Summit brought together ministers, policymakers, and stakeholders at the SQUARE Brussels Meeting Centre to tackle the most pressing challenges facing Europe’s education and training systems. As Director of EARLALL (European Association of Regional and Local Authorities for Lifelong Learning), I attended this flagship event to engage with discussions on how education can fuel Europe’s growth, competitiveness, and social cohesion.

Executive Vice President Roxana Mînzatu’s Vision

The highlight of the Summit was the opening address by Executive Vice-President Roxana Mînzatu, who emphasized that “education changes individuals but also communities” – a principle at the heart of regional and local approaches to lifelong learning.

Mînzatu identified three critical areas where Europe is falling short: 30% of European teenagers struggle with mathematics and reading; teacher shortages undermine education quality; and 80% of companies report difficulties finding workers with the right skills.

A Two-Pronged Approach

The Vice-President outlined two priority areas. First, a renewed focus on basic skills and citizenship education – “to run we need to walk first” – supported by the Commission’s Action Plan for Basic Skills. Second, stronger partnerships between education providers and businesses to align learning outcomes with labour market needs.

Funding as a Shared Responsibility

Mînzatu called for Member States to dedicate at least 14% of their budgets to education, doubling the Erasmus+ budget in the next Multiannual Financial Framework (post-2027), and mobilizing private funding through innovative mechanisms, including companies “adopting” schools as part of their corporate social responsibility strategies. The Commission has launched 100 Erasmus+ STEM scholarships as a pilot, but significantly more investment will be needed.

The 2026 Education Package

The Vice-President announced a comprehensive Education Package for next year, including School Alliances to strengthen collaboration between institutions, a renewed VET Strategy to make vocational training more attractive and relevant, and a Teachers and Trainers Strategy to address the profession’s challenges.

Diverse Perspectives, Yet a Critical Absence

The Summit featured rich parallel sessions throughout the day, covering teacher shortages, basic skills, STEM education, vocational training, higher education futures, and lifelong learning partnerships, with an impressive array of ministers, university rectors, business leaders, student representatives, and education experts.

However, a striking gap was evident. Out of 56 speakers, only one represented regional and local authorities: Markku Markkula, Vice-President of the European Committee of the Regions. This glaring underrepresentation is particularly troubling given that regional and local authorities are the primary implementers of education and skills policies across Europe. We are closest to citizens, schools, training providers, and local businesses. We understand territorial specificities, manage education infrastructure, coordinate with local employers, and adapt national and European strategies to local contexts.

The absence of regional and local voices sends a worrying message about how education policy dialogue is conceived at the European level. While rhetoric emphasizes collaboration “at all levels of governance,” the Summit’s programme suggests that regions are still seen as mere implementers rather than strategic partners with valuable expertise to contribute.

A Call for Genuine Multi-Level Collaboration

Executive Vice-President Mînzatu concluded her opening speech with a powerful message: “We need to do it together – sharp minds are a valuable currency.” This captures the essential truth that addressing Europe’s education and skills challenges requires collaboration across all governance levels, from the European Commission to regional and local authorities, and from education providers to businesses and civil society.

Yet for this collaboration to be genuine and effective, regional and local authorities must be present not just in implementation, but in policy dialogue and strategic planning. The Summit’s emphasis on basic skills, teacher quality, education-business partnerships, and shared funding responsibility aligns with the work EARLALL members already undertake across Europe. However, we hope that future editions of this flagship Summit will better reflect the multi-level governance reality of European education and skills policies.

As we move toward the 2026 Education Package, regional and local authorities must be active partners in shaping strategies that work on the ground. Education is not just about individual advancement – it is the foundation for community transformation, economic competitiveness, and Europe’s future prosperity.

On 5 November 2025, EARLALL, in cooperation with Crescendo CVO and GO! The Education of the Flemish Community, organised the workshop “Empowering Futures: Boosting VET and ALE Attractiveness Across Regions” in Mechelen, Belgium.

The event, held as part of the three-day EARLALL General Assembly and Annual Meeting, brought together representatives from EARLALL member regions, alongside regional and local authorities, the European Commission, research institutions, and practitioners in Vocational Education and Training (VET) and Adult Learning and Education (ALE).

The workshop, moderated by Míriam Castillo González, Head of Unit for Programmes and Projects at the Directorate-General for Vocational Education and Training, Ministry of Education and VET of Catalonia, provided a platform for exchanging experiences and discussing how to enhance the appeal and value of VET and ALE across European regions. In her introduction, she warmly welcomed participants from across Europe, noting the inspiring setting at Crescendo CVO in Mechelen. She emphasised that the session aimed to make VET and ALE “not second options, but first choices” – modern, flexible, and empowering pathways that open doors to meaningful careers and lifelong learning.

Opening and Regional Context

The event was opened by Sabe de Graef, Councillor of the City of Mechelen, who underlined the key role of local authorities in building inclusive and engaging learning environments. She noted that Mechelen continues to address high school dropout rates (around 18%, higher in VET) by promoting a positive school climate, youth engagement, and strong partnerships with the health and employment sectors.

de Graef also presented a local initiative, “learning shop of Mechelen” a network of over 160 partners that has supported from 150 to 1,300 individuals over four years, helping early school leavers return to education and achieve a secondary qualification.

This was followed by a presentation from Jens Vermeersch (Internationalisation Policy Coordinator at GO! Onderwijs van de Vlaamse Gemeenschap) and Marleen Mast (Director of Crescendo CVO), who introduced the “Attractiveness in Flanders” initiatives. Their intervention showcased how Flanders is building a positive image of VET by focusing on high-quality teaching, collaboration with enterprises, and flexible learning pathways for both young people and adult learners.

European Commission’s views on the Future of VET

A keynote speech by Hjordis Virgarsdottir Dalsgaard from the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion provided a broader European perspective.

Her presentation outlined how recent EU policy developments – from the 2024–2029 European Commission Political Guidelines and the 2024 Draghi Report to the upcomingEuropean VET Policy 2026–2030 – reinforce a strong focus on skills, innovation, and inclusion.

Dalsgaard emphasised that the Herning Declaration (2025) renews Europe’s joint commitment to VET for the period 2026–2030, reaffirming the 2020 VET Recommendation and the Osnabrück Declaration, while introducing the concept of a “Union of Skills”. 

She also presented recent EU figures showing that over half of young Europeans (52.4%) are enrolled in VET programmes, with two-thirds engaged in work-based learning.The graduate employment rate stands at 80%, close to the European target of 82%. However, she noted that VET learner mobility remains low, with only 5.3% of students participating in cross-border experiences in 2023 – still below the 2030 target of 12%.

Research and Policy Implications

Dr Paul Redmond, Associate Research Professor at the Economic and Social Research Institute (Ireland), presented the latest findings from the TRAILS – Enabling data analytics for actions tackling skills shortages & mismatch (European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme) research project on participation in VET and ALE, and discussed their implications for regional policymaking. He underlined that the attractiveness of vocational and adult education depends not only on the quality of programmes, but also on social perception, including the status of vocational professions and the involvement of employers in the training process.

Panel Discussion: Regional Approaches

A lively panel discussion, moderated by Professor Paolo Federighi from the University of Florence, allowed EARLALL regions to share their strategies for strengthening VET and ALE attractiveness. 

The panel unfolded in two thematic rounds following the Herning Declaration on VET (adopted in September 2025), which sets out a renewed commitment to strengthening European cooperation in the field of Vocational Education and Training (VET).

• Round 1 focused on: Aligning VET with labour market needs through partnerships and the use of skills intelligence data;
• Round 2 focused on: Attracting new learners and engaging adults, particularly those with low skills, in upskilling and reskilling initiatives.

Knut Becker from Baden-Württemberg’s Competence Centre for Adult Basic Education presented “Alliance for Lifelong Learning” and examples for Workplace-Oriented VET. 

Inge Gorostiaga Luzárraga, Basque Country Director General for Digital Transformation and Advanced Learning at the Ministry of Education, described a collaborative VET network involving schools, enterprises, and innovation centres, enabling flexible, lifelong learning pathways tailored to individual needs.

From the Directorate for Education, Training, Research and Labour, Tuscany region, Miriana Bucalossioutlined how regional skills governance translates the Herning Declaration’s objectives into action through social dialogue, tripartite cooperation, and tools such as the Quality Charter for Apprenticeships.

Maria Nordh, Policy Advisor from Region Västra Götaland (Sweden), presented the region’s coordinated approach to strategic skills supply and labour market matching. She explained how Västra Götaland aligns regional development, skills provision, and lifelong learning through systematic dialogues with industry and forums bringing together education providers, employers, and public agencies.

Finally, Julia Burkhard from Movetia (Switzerland) presented the Swiss model, showing how regional coordination and cross-border cooperation enhance the quality, mobility, and international visibility of VET.

Closing and Study Visit

Míriam Castillo González thanked Professor Federighi and all panellists for their insightful contributions, noting that examples from Baden-Württemberg, the Basque Country, Tuscany, Västra Götaland, and Switzerland showed how regional collaboration makes education more inclusive and responsive to change.

She underlined that regions do not only implement European policies – they shape them, turning frameworks into real opportunities for learners and communities. Trueattractiveness in education, she added, comes from relevance – when learning connects to purpose and growth.

Míriam concluded by stressing the role of EARLALL in fostering cooperation and giving regions a strong collective voice, encouraging participants to keep working together to make lifelong learning a lived reality for all.

The session ended with an invitation to join the study visit to Crescendo CVO, where participants could observe innovative local practices supporting the development of VET and ALE in the Mechelen area.

Resources

• Workshop speakers’ presentations (all in one)

The European Commission has released its 2026 Work Programme, outlining the key strategies, action plans, and legislative initiatives that will guide the second year of its mandate. Building on President von der Leyen’s Political Guidelines, the programme sets the direction for a strong, secure, and prosperous Europe.

The Work Programme highlights significant opportunities in the areas of education, skills, the labour market, and inclusion. It emphasises the importance of upskilling and reskilling, fostering lifelong learning, and enhancing the recognition of skills and qualifications across EU Member States.

A strong focus is also placed on mobility, both for learners and talents, supporting cross-border exchanges and collaboration. The programme underlines the need to reduce inequalities, improve access for disadvantaged groups, and strengthen connections between employers, education institutions, and local authorities.

These priorities resonate closely with EARLALL’s ongoing initiatives, including Regional Skills Partnerships, mobility projects, VET and apprenticeship programmes, and activities aimed at fostering inclusion and equal opportunities. By aligning our work with the EU’s strategic direction, EARLALL can continue to strengthen regional cooperation, innovation in education and training, and the professional development of learners across Europe.

From 13 to 18 October 2025, more than 10,000 ErasmusDays events took place across Europe — and one of them brought together educators, project partners, and international volunteers in Borås Municipality, Västra Götaland Region.

The event featured an inspiring exhibition and a series of project presentations, moderated by Ms. Malin Gemzell. Throughout the day, participants highlighted the strong European cooperation and innovation emerging from local and regional initiatives.

Mr. Hans Johansson, Head of Labour Market Initiatives at the Working Life Department, shared insights from a job shadowing activity carried out within Erasmus+ Key Action 1: Mobility in Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg. Reflecting on the experience, he noted:

“We face roughly the same challenges but have different solutions.”

This spirit of mutual learning was also reflected in other initiatives presented during the event. The Department of Early Childhood Education showcased the recently completed Erasmus+ KA2 project “Digital Creativity Use for Learning and Teaching in Educational Framework of Early Childhood.” The project resulted in a multilingual handbook developed in cooperation with the Federazione Provinciale Scuole Materne (Trento) and the University of Borås.

The Leisure and Public Health Department, acting as one of Sweden’s Eurodesk offices, presented its work as both a sending and hosting organisation for international volunteers. Among them are Mohamed Ma Mohammed Yassine Mansouri El Ghmari from Barcelona (Catalonia) and Iratxe Olaizola Vargas from Bilbao (Basque Country) — both actively engaged in youth and community activities in Borås.

Additionally, the Department of Compulsory Education introduced a creative Erasmus+ project exploring art and storytelling in mathematics education, while the Department of Upper Secondary Schools and Adult Education continues to be actively involved in Erasmus+ KA1 Mobility projects.

The ErasmusDays celebration in Borås once again demonstrated how regional collaboration and European partnerships can strengthen skills, creativity, and inclusion across all levels of education and training.

For more information, please contact malin.gemzell@boras.se

On 28 October 2025, EARLALL joined the webinar “Making Skills Recognition More Inclusive: How Can the Validation of Non-Formal and Informal Learning Better Serve the Most Vulnerable?”. Organized by the Social Innovation Initiative, this event brought together ESF+ stakeholders, NGOs and Managing Authorities to explore how validation systems can better support inclusion across Europe.

Validation as a Tool for Inclusion

The event opened with Jörgen Markowitsch, Thematic Expert of the ESF+ Community of Practice on Employment, Education and Skills, who emphasized the crucial role of lifelong learning platforms such as LLLP (Lifelong learning platform) in addressing both skills shortages and the human dimension of current crises. Markowitsch underlined the need to make validation systems more accessible, especially for those furthest from the labour market.

Following this, Ernesto Villalba-García, Expert in VET Supporting Policies at CEDEFOP, delivered a keynote titled “Validation of Non-Formal and Informal Learning in Europe: A Tool for Inclusion or Exclusion?”, outlining how the understanding of non-formal and informal learning is essential for building inclusive education and training systems. Villalba-García highlighted that skills must evolve from invisible to visible, to recognize diverse forms of learning and ensuring that skills gained outside traditional systems are valued.

National Perspectives

Two breakout sessions provided insights from Germany and Portugal, encouraging participants in the webinar to discuss and exchange experiences. In the German session, participants explored how ValiKom has transitioned from a project into a national policy framework, now embedded in Germany’s Vocational Training Act. Marcus Flachmeyer from HeurekaNet, shared examples from the elderly care sector, demonstrating the validation of informally and non-formally skills support workforce. The session concluded with a discussion moderated by Jörg Markowitsch, focusing on integrating validation within broader vocational systems.

In the Portuguese session, Paula Guimarães, Assistant Professor at University of Lisbon, highlighted how validation of skills has become a cornerstone of lifelong learning in Portugal. Continued by Marco António Paz, Counselor at INOVINTER Qualifica Centre Lisbon, who shared practical insights from qualification centre. Their examples illustrated how to bridge the gap between adult education, labour market integration and social inclusion.

Looking Ahead: Strengthening Inclusive Validation

The webinar concluded with a shared understanding that validation systems must go beyond recognition to empower individuals. As part of its ongoing commitment, EARLALL continues to promote skills recognition as a driver of social inclusion and regional development, particularly for vulnerable groups.

On 27 October, EARLALL’s Communication Manager, Alicia Gabán, was invited to present the association’s efforts to promote mobility through Lifelong Learning at the Lifelong Learning Platform (LLLP) Working Group on Internationalisation of Education and Training. She was accompanied by the Working Group on Mobility co-chair, Nicholas Waller (Working Life Department at the Boras Stad).

The meeting was chaired by Giulia Meschino (LLLP Steering Committee/EVTA). The session began with participant introductions and updates from within LLLP, including a presentation on the newly established Directorate-General for the Middle East, North Africa and the Gulf (DG MENA), created by the European Commission on 1 February 2025. This new Directorate-General aims to foster strong partnerships with the Middle East, North Africa, and Gulf regions to promote sustainable prosperity and resilience. Participants also discussed the EU’s upcoming VET Strategy and ongoing collaboration with the Global Citizenship Education Alliance, ensuring that stakeholders’ voices continue to shape policy development.

EARLALL’s Contribution: Regional Skills Partnerships for Lifelong Learning Mobility

EARLALL contributed to the meeting with a presentation highlighting its Regional Skills Partnerships for Lifelong Learning Mobility. This initiative is part of EARLALL’s Working Group on Mobility, which fosters collaboration with key European initiatives such as the European Alliance for Apprenticeships and the Pact for Skills.

A key achievement of the Working Group has been the launch of the Mobility Matchmaking Platform, a tool that enables members to exchange knowledge and organise study visits, job shadowing, or combined activities. Promoted across multiple working groups, the platform strengthens cross-regional cooperation and internationalisation efforts.

Within this framework, EARLALL is also leading the Regional Pact for Skills in Lifelong Learning Mobility, aimed at boosting VET mobility across Europe. The Pact promotes lifelong learning and professional opportunities through activities such as online training, webinars and the exchange of best practices in mobility. Another important initiative presented was the Working Group’s ongoing work on collecting good practices that promote mobility for people with fewer opportunities. A fact sheet summarizing the first results will be released soon.

Additional Contributions and Outcomes from EFIL and the University of Minho

The session also featured presentations from the European Federation for Intercultural Learning, (EFIL) and the University of Minho. Emma Varan Oien, School Relations Project Officer from EFIL, showcased research on fostering global citizenship values through teaching and mobility, introducing resources and toolkits for educators. Joao Mourato Pinto, Assistant Professor at the University of Minho, explored the evolution of Erasmus+ from a domestic education program to a strategic EU soft power instrument.

The Working Group on Internationalisation of Education and Training meeting concluded with an invitation to join the 15th Lifelong Learning Week 8-12 December.

EARLALL joined Education for Climate Day 2025 on 23 October, this year held under the theme Learning to Prepare. The event gathered educators, students, policymakers and innovators to discuss how education can foster a culture of preparedness in the face of climate change.

Panel discussions explored preparedness across different sectors, with particular focus on highlighting education’s essential role in building a proactive and resilient society. The day opened with remarks by Pia Ahrenkilde Hansen, Director-General for Education, Youth, Sport and Culture at the European Commission, who set the tone for a day of exchange and inspiration.

The first roundtable, moderated by Johnny Dabrowski, Coordinator at the Climate Education Coalition, examined how international frameworks can be translated into practical, resilience-building strategies for education in Europe.

Meriela Buonomo, Senior Specialist at the Education Programme IIEP-UNESCO, emphasised that “education is not only a victim of climate change, it is also an agent for resilience.” Buonomo stressed the need to identify both vulnerabilities and capacities within education systems to strengthen their response to climate challenges. Building on this, Erik Guilyardi, Climate Scientist at CNRS-IPSL and President of the Office for Climate Education, underlined the importance of interdisciplinarity: “We want to build the citizens of tomorrow, not just students who have good knowledge about climate.” Guilyardi advocated for stronger collaboration with local actors to contextualise scientific knowledge for learners at all levels.

Dr Iryna Nikolayeva, Lead of In the MOOD for Climate Action at the Learning Planet Institute, reflected on the shift needed in education systems that were designed for the industrial era. “We now need people with emotional intelligence, adaptability, and resilience,” Nikolayeva said, stressing the importance of soft skills in addressing climate challenges. The panel concluded with Bella Nestorova, Team Leader for Disaster Risk and Resilience at DG ECHO, who referred to a Eurobarometer survey showing that two-thirds of Europeans want to learn how to cope with risks. She highlighted the need to integrate preparedness into school curricula and empower educators as key multipliers.

The second panel moved from classrooms to communities, examining how local actors can help learners develop the skills needed to navigate climate disruptions. Dr Aravella Zachariou, Head of Unit for ESD in Cyprus and Chair of the UNECE ESD Steering Committee, illustrated how climate change affects not only ecosystems but also culture, using the example of a traditional woven basket no longer possible to create due to environmental shifts. Rozabela Singh, Project Planner for BALTFLOODS, presented the case of Lappeenranta in Finland, where citizen engagement and real-time data are helping the city prepare for floods and reduce pollution, highlighting three key points such as the opportunity to codesign cities for community engagement, involving residents to make cities a space for them.

Valentina Di Giuseppe Di Paolo, Expert in Voluntary Work at Italy’s Civil Protection Department, shared best practices such as experimental programmes in kinder garten using games and comic strips like Io Non Rischio to teach preparedness in an engaging and inclusive way.

Education for Climate Day 2025 served as a strong reminder that education is key to equipping people and communities to act and adapt in a changing world. EARLALL’s participation aligns with its mission to promote lifelong learning and skills for sustainable regional development, ensuring that regions and local authorities remain at the forefront of Europe’s transition toward a climate-resilient and inclusive future.

EARLALL joined the EPALE Community Conference to celebrate its 10 anniversary on 23 October, aimed at connecting, cooperating and reflecting on learning in the age of AI.

The conference opened with a speech by Wilhelm Vukovich, DG EAC of the European Commission, who discussed both the opportunities and challenges that AI presents for education. He highlighted AI’s potential to personalise learning, enhance accessibility and remove barriers for individuals excluded from formal education. However, Vukovich cautioned about ethical concerns, data security and the importance of preserving the human touch in education, stating that “The human touch remains irreplaceable”. He praised EPALE’s role in fostering lifelong learning by supporting educators and promoting innovative approaches for learning.

Following this, Jill Peiffer and Margret Zeiner, representing Belgian Erasmus+ National Agencies (EPOS vzw & Jugendbüro), explored shared priorities among French, Flanders, and German-speaking communities in Belgium. Concluding by emphasizing lifelong learning as a driver of personal and regional growth, underlining the common commitment of all communities to adult education.

EPALE ambassadors then presented their initiatives to broaden access to education. Lut Lippeveld shared her work supporting education in prisons, highlighting efforts to engage excluded learners. Jenny Clavereau continued speaking about the potential of microcredentials and sharing EPALE toolkits across networks, while Pierre Goffin (SPW Wallonie) emphasised cross-regional collaboration, focusing on developing soft skills alongside technical expertise. Collectively, the ambassadors highlighted how EPALE fosters knowledge sharing, partnership building and innovative approaches for inclusive learning

across Europe.

Baert argued that the AI “honeymoon” is over, fundamental LLM flaws persist, business models remain uncertain and society risks eroding its knowledge systems if it fails to critically distinguish human intelligence from machine imitation. Without sounding to harsh, Baert encouraged the participants to view it as a tool, and to always think critically when using AI, trusting peer reviewed material above AI models.

The conference concluded with closing remarks from the moderators, celebrating EPALE’s decade-long commitment to connecting educators, sharing practices, and inspiring innovation to ensure inclusive and lifelong learning for all. By taking part in this milestone event, EARLALL continues to support and promote more and better learning opportunities for all adults across Europe, in line with the goals of the EPALE community and the Erasmus+ programme.