In this section we have selected and briefly summarized the key points of the new programme of the Polish Presidency of the EU Council that are relevant to EfVET’s activities and that will guide our upcoming and future activities.
January 1, 2025 – For the second time, Poland assumed the Presidency of the Council of the European Union at a time of uncertainty and concern. The main objective of the Programme of the Polish Presidency is to implement the priorities established around the theme of security, but also to support activities to strengthen European security in all its dimensions: external, internal, information, economic, energy, food and health.
As analyzed by the Programme, Europeans are affected by the consequences of migration pressure, energy transition, declining competitiveness of the European economy and climate change, in a moment where democracy, freedom and the rule of law cannot be taken for granted. Within this complex frame, the Polish Presidency emphasizes the importance of an inclusive and equitable education. The Council’s initiative will focus on practical approaches to ensuring accessible school and early childhood education for all. On the Education, Youth, Culture and Sport sector, the Council will also support young people, especially offering artists the opportunity to pursue professional careers. Moreover, attention will be given to strengthening European identity among youngsters and recognizing the role of sports in education and personal development.
In the field of higher education, Poland will pursue the higher education package, with a focus on the development of a common European diploma. In the field of vocational education and training, it will prioritize the implementation of vocational excellence; in addition, the Presidency will facilitate discussions on student and academic mobility. Regarding youth policy, efforts will be made to foster a strong sense of European identity.
The Presidency will work on the creation of a communication strategy for the EU-Youth Dialogue. The implementation of this strategy will have a direct impact on the effectiveness and outreach, enabling it to be promoted and undertaken by policy makers, partners, and co-organizers, both youth and youth oriented. As part of the legacy of the European Year of Youth 2022, the Polish Presidency will finally provide a space for high-level discussions on integrating the youth perspective into key policies and focus on advancing gender equality in the digital era.
EfVET and its VicePresident for Policy, Arja Flinkman, are constantly monitoring and following the advancement of VET and HVET policy. Union of Skills for a real European Education Space, implementation of microcredentials on a large scale, substantial increase in findings for VET mobility are at the core of our action.
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For more info, check: polish-presidency.consilium.europa.eu & Programme of the Presidency.
