Shaping Learning and Skills for Europe

The document outlines Europe’s evolving approach to vocational education and training (VET) and skills development (VET-S), highlighting the shift from traditional job-based models to outcome-focused strategies aligned with labour market needs. As Cedefop marks its 50th anniversary, the paper supports the upcoming Herning Declaration and calls for integrating VET-S across multiple policy domains like employment, innovation, and migration. It presents the concept of VET-S policies, which responds to the policies addressing the rising need for lifelong learning and adult education beyond formal qualifications.

Europe is facing mounting pressure from the green and digital transitions, demographic shifts, and global instability. These changes reveal significant skills gaps, especially in sustainability and digital sectors. While there’s been progress in work-based learning and qualification recognition, challenges remain in digital skills, adult education participation, and aligning training with labour market demands. Many employers still prioritize narrow, job-specific skills, neglecting foundational competences like communication and literacy. The report proposes five focus areas for future policy actions: accessibility, inclusion, quality, innovation, and attractiveness. These aim to make learning more universal, diverse, and continuous by supporting skills development at work, in communities, and through digital tools. Breaking down the divide between academic and vocational education is also key to improving VET’s image. The report urges coordinated, long-term policy action and greater employer involvement to build a resilient and skilled European workforce.