In 1975, Cedefop - The European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training - embarked on a mission to transform vocational education and training and skills for Europe’s future and prosperity. Fast forward nearly five decades, and that mission remains as vital as ever, driving us toward our 50th anniversary and beyond.
Our newly unveiled 50th Anniversary logo, now featured across our platforms, symbolises a pioneering journey. Since 1975, Cedefop has been at the forefront of Europe’s skills revolution—making strides to empower people, transform lives, and build a stronger Europe. From the outset, our vision has been clear: to ensure that every individual in Europe has the skills to thrive.
Marking a Milestone
Over the past half-century, Cedefop has built a robust foundation for VET research and established itself as a leader in labour market and skills analysis. We pioneered the first pan-European skills forecast, and many of the EU tools we have developed have become cornerstones of Europe’s skills intelligence landscape.
In February 2025, Cedefop will officially celebrate 50 years of working together to shape VET and skills for Europe. The months ahead will be marked by reflections on our achievements and foresight discussions, engaging stakeholders, and partners across Europe to envision the future of VET, skills, and learning.
Our Vision for the Future
Technological advancements and key global transitions are reshaping worplace and workforce, creating both challenges and opportunities. The decades ahead will demand adaptability, innovation, and resilience. Cedefop will play a crucial role in providing the knowledge and tools to:
- Understand the evolving needs of the labour market, identifying skills shortages, knowledge gaps, and effective policy measures.
- Enable upskilling and reskilling opportunities for workers, fostering lifelong learning and meaningful career pathways in an ever-changing world.
- Transform workplaces into hubs of growth, learning, and opportunity.
With a 50-year legacy rooted in research, policy and collaboration, Cedefop is committed to making VET and skills development inclusive, forward-thinking, and accessible to all.
Cedefop – shaping skills and learning for Europe!