Nicosia: The future of societies will depend on the skills developed and the collective ability to work together towards a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable future, stated Athena Michaelidou, Minister of Education, Sport and Youth. She delivered a speech at the International Conference 'People, Skills and Partnerships: Delivering Vocational Education and Training Reforms in the Mediterranean', held in Nicosia.
According to Cyprus News Agency, with the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union nearing its conclusion, the conference provided an opportunity to reflect on progress and to strategize on enhancing education, skills, and cooperation across Europe and the Mediterranean. Throughout the presidency, discussions focused on priorities in education and training, including the future of Erasmus+, teacher support through professional development, and promoting a learner-centred approach aligned with the European Education Area and the Union of Skills.
Michaelidou emphasized the importance of equipping learners with necessary knowledge and skills for societal participation and success in a changing world. She outlined the motto of the Cyprus Presidency: 'An autonomous Union. Open to the world', highlighting the need for strategic autonomy through investment in people, education, and skills. She clarified that autonomy does not equate to isolation, as Europe's strength lies in openness, partnerships, and constructive engagement globally.
The Minister highlighted Cyprus's strategic position at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa, emphasizing the importance of cooperation with the Southern Neighbourhood and the wider Mediterranean region. The conference underscores this ambition, with vocational education and training playing a crucial role in preparing learners for the future.
Michaelidou noted that vocational education and training is a key driver of skills development, employability, innovation, and social inclusion. The government has invested in vocational education and training over the past three years, promoting quality programmes and enhancing the link between education and labour market needs. This includes initiatives like the technological gymnasium, which promotes technical and vocational skills from the age of 12, effectively doubling the demand for vocational education and training.
These priorities are reflected in conference discussions, focusing on youth and women's empowerment, skills ecosystems, vocational excellence, and skills reforms for the twin transition. The emphasis is on cooperation, innovation, and shared learning for building inclusive, resilient, and future-oriented societies.
As the Cyprus Presidency concludes, the Minister expressed hope that partnerships and ideas generated from the conference will contribute to lasting cooperation between Europe and the Mediterranean region. The future of societies will rely on skill development and collective efforts to shape a more prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable future, Michaelidou concluded.