Brussels, 25/11/2013 (Agence Europe) - On 25 November, the Education Council adopted conclusions on the global dimension of European higher education in which calls for the implementation of global strategic approaches to pursue this end, in cooperation with all the different stakeholders involved. These conclusions cover three main areas: student and staff mobility; the internationalisation of curricula and of digital education; as well as strategic cooperation, partnerships and enhanced capacity.
The modernisation and internationalisation of higher education are considered key factors in enhancing the EU's ability to promote growth and job creation through innovation and research. These factors will also help improve the quality of higher education and better prepare learners in Europe to live in a context of globalisation and work in a global economy. Increasing globalisation and new technology also provide innovative learning methods, such as online learning for all. This all radically changes the higher education landscape and further increases global competition to obtain an increased share of a mobile student market at an international level and to attract the best talent available. The Council highlights the strength of the European higher education system, its high-quality teaching and research, the diversity of its institutions and support for cooperation in sectors where this brings added value such as programmes that lead to joint and double diplomas, doctoral schools and studies, and as international partnerships. (IL/transl.fl)