Brussels: Vocational Education must be recognised on an equal footing with other educational pathways, according to Cyprus' Minister of Education, Sport and Youth, Athena Michaelidou. In her opening speech at the two-day meeting of Directors-General for Vocational Education and Training (VET), held under the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union, she emphasized the role of VET in building a resilient and competitive European skills ecosystem. She noted its significant contribution to social cohesion, sustainable development, and the creation of quality jobs.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Michaelidou outlined the priorities of the Cyprus Presidency, aiming to shape a robust European framework that supports sustainable development, social cohesion, and competitiveness. She stressed the importance of recognizing VET on par with other educational pathways, providing real prospects for professional development, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
Michaelidou highlighted that maintaining quality and excellence is crucial for VET systems. She called for VET to function as a dynamic hub for cooperation among education providers, businesses, social partners, and research institutions. She also addressed the impact of artificial intelligence, observing its role in transforming professions, creating new specializations, and reshaping work organization. She pointed out that AI can enhance the educational process by improving teaching effectiveness and governance in education systems.
The minister concluded her speech by reiterating the Cyprus Presidency's commitment to promoting dialogue and cooperation in skills and VET, aiming for a resilient and competitive European skills landscape.
The meeting of directors will focus on the attractiveness of VET, featuring the latest Eurobarometer results presented by the European Commission and a study by the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (Cedefop). Discussions will also cover various aspects of VET's attractiveness and the role of artificial intelligence.