Brussels, 17/02/2004 (Agence Europe) - In his first meeting as president of the vocational training committee of UEAPME (the European Association of Craft and Small and Medium Enterprises) last week in Brussels, Alain Griset, appealed to the European Commission to offer apprentices an instrument which is as well-respected and accessible as the Erasmus programme for students. UEAPME is asking for: -a clear definition of the status of apprentice at European level; -a revision of vocational careers guidance in Europe; -better recognition for methods of learning within the profession, and better validation of experience gathered in the different countries of Europe. It is also calling for the development of life-long learning in the craft and SME sectors to be taken account of in the national implementation of the framework of actions for the life-long development of qualifications and skills, by the social partners.