Brussels, 04/10/2012 (Agence Europe) - European Union education and training policies and the possible connection between them and economic growth will be at the heart of education ministers' discussions on 4-5 October in Nicosia, during the informal work session. The Cypriot presidency had already provided a document to delegations, inviting ministers to look at new ways of tackling shortcomings in the education sector, in a context of crisis and improving youth unemployment, as well as exchanging good practices on appropriate investment in education. This document was drawn up on the basis of the conclusions of a conference organised on 5-6 September by the presidency on the theme of illiteracy. It highlighted the difficulties of far too many people failing to find a job because of their lack of basic skills (particularly reading and writing).
The EUROPE 2020 strategy underlines the important role of education for a more inclusive Europe and more sustainable growth. In this context, Androulla Vassiliou, the European Commissioner responsible for education and training, underlined the urgent need for priority investment in education. She also referred to the Commission proposal to substantially increase the new budget for education, training and youth “Erasmus for all”, as a means to expand the number of students in training or exercising voluntary activities abroad. The Commissioner stated that, “these opportunities are invaluable for enhancing skills and employability. My message to Finance Ministers and Prime Ministers is simple: think of our young people first when it comes to deciding your priorities in the future EU budget”. (IL/trans.fl)