Nicosia: The vision for strong European cooperation in the fields of education and training, as well as the future of education in Europe, was articulated by representatives of EU Member States at the two-day High-Level Group Meeting on Education and Training, concluded on Tuesday at the New Nicosia Town Hall. The Head of the Irish delegation at the meeting presented key topics for the Irish Presidency of the Council of the EU, set for the second semester of 2026.
According to Cyprus News Agency, participants shared their views and concerns about the European Education Area (EEA), a framework for cooperation among EU Member States aimed at improving national education and training systems. They expressed support for the Strategic Framework for the EEA and lamented the lack of a finalized resolution for the framework last week, while stressing their commitment to enhancing cooperation among EU Member States regarding the EEA.
On behalf of the European Commission, Gyula Cserey, Head of Unit EAC A1 Strategy and Investments, noted that significant progress had been made with over 200 mutual learning activities and more than 100 concrete deliverables and guidelines in recent years. He emphasized that the Strategic Framework for the EEA has been instrumental in supporting strategic initiatives aligned with Council resolutions.
Cserey also expressed confidence that the draft resolution would be adopted soon, providing a strong foundation for future efforts. The discussion highlighted both achievements and areas needing improvement, such as performance in basic skills and adult participation in lifelong learning.
Vincent Landers, Head of the Irish delegation, outlined the main topics for the Irish Presidency of the Council of the EU in 2026, focusing on the EU Strategic Agenda 2024-2029, the Commission Work Programme, and the Trio Programme. The Irish Presidency will prioritize high-level areas such as EU values, security, and competitiveness.
Landers further mentioned the next Erasmus+ programme, underachievement in basic skills and STEM education, cooperation in AI in education and training, and Inclusive and Special Education policies as priorities. He also provided details about key events planned during the Irish Presidency concerning education and training.