Shaping learning and skills for Europe

Europe's workforce and workplaces are at a turning point. The EU Competitiveness Compass highlights the critical role of skills in driving productivity, innovation, inclusion, and resilience in Europe. From the European Year of Skills to the newly launched Union of Skills initiative, the EU is strengthening its capacity to equip workers and businesses with the right skills for the twin digital and green transitions.

The conference will bring together over 250 key EU stakeholders to provide actionable insights on Europe’s evolving skills and education landscape. By leveraging Cedefop’s skills intelligence, discussions will focus on how vocational education and training (VET), upskilling, reskilling, and lifelong learning can reinforce Europe’s economic sovereignty and social cohesion. It will address crucial topics such as the future of vocational education and training, bridging the gap between learning and the labour market, and better skills for EU citizens.

Key themes

• Next-generation skills intelligence
• Bridging the gap between learning and work
• Investing in people
• Making adult learning a reality
• From Copenhagen to Herning, insights from the progress of the Copenhagen Process
• The importance of being vocational
• The future of European policies and Cedefop’s role  

With keynote addresses from EU Commissioners and Members of the European Parliament, alongside expert panel discussions with social partners and policy makers, this conference is a strategic forum for shaping next-generation policies that connect skills, competitiveness, and Europe's long-term prosperity.

Join the Conversation!
As we celebrate 50 years of Cedefop’s contribution to European skills development, we invite you to be part of the discussion on the next 50 years. Secure your spot today and contribute to building a Europe where skills drive progress, prosperity, and unity.

Check out the draft programme.