As Europe stands at the edge of a major transformation—digital, green, and demographic—one question takes center stage: can we learn and skill fast, broadly, and equitably enough to keep pace? Cedefop conference "Shaping the future of learning and skills in Europe" marks a pivotal moment in how the European Union answers this challenge.
Hosted to mark Cedefop’s 50th anniversary, the high-level conference is more than a celebration — it is a call to action. Shaping Learning and Skills for Europe builds on the momentum of the Union of Skills initiative, setting the stage for the next chapter of vocational education and training (VET), lifelong learning, and skills policy at EU level.
With over 300 high-level participants from EU institutions, national governments, social partners, research, and business, the conference seeks to redefine the role of VET and skills in a Europe that aims to remain globally competitive and socially cohesive. The demand for agile, inclusive and future-proof learning systems has never been greater.
The conference features leading voices from EU institutions, national governments, social partners and civil society.
Key themes and sessions
The conference will focus on Europe’s most pressing strategic priorities:
Next-generation skills intelligence: a vital tool for informing policy and supporting effective vocational training and skills development systems.
Towards the new EU strategy on VET and skills, from Copenhagen to Herning: the challenges of implementing EU priorities for VET and the outlook on cooperation and key priorities for the next decade.
Attractiveness of the teaching profession, looking at the key factors affecting the attractiveness of the teaching profession, and strategies to address teacher shortages in Europe, also in the context of the upcoming EU teachers’ agenda.
The future of European policies and Cedefop’s role, a deep dive into the evolving landscape of European policies, focusing on key challenges and opportunities.
As Cedefop turns 50, we are reminded that skills are the glue for an evolving and inclusive society. Tomorrow is today, join the conversation to shape learning and skills for Europe.
