We are pleased to announce our flagship event in Thessaloniki on 12th and 13th May to launch and promote Cedefop’s forthcoming new framework for policy and systems development for lifelong guidance and to recognise the valuable contributions of those who supported this work, which is designed to provide inspiration and a platform for structured collaboration.
This policy forum brings together stakeholders in Europe who have an interest in finding and re-locating common ground with the help of this shared framework, aligned with the aims of the Union of Skills and the European Pillar of Social Rights and related ambitions. The effort is aimed at enhancing the quality of policies, services and systems – through the winds of change – for the development of lifelong guidance, to adequately meet the changing information, guidance and advisory needs of a diverse population.
Europe faces unprecedented challenges, where frequent social, economic and policy changes have become commonplace - societal shifts, transitions and transformations, coupled with evidence of mounting resource constraints. The event provides a timely opportunity to contextualise the new framework in a broader perspective. This includes its relevance for unfolding developments affecting careers and learning across the lifespan, within and beyond education and training, including VET’s rising attractiveness; as well as labour market, and civil society contexts.
An open webinar was held in April 2025 previewing the work against the backdrop of Cedefop’s long involvement in the guidance field. Speakers discussed the changing expectations for guidance systems, calling for further cooperation, adaptation and innovation, while building on previous experiences in the countries, growing expertise, research and awareness of the benefits of guidance, and accumulated knowledge and know-how on the ground.
The new framework will inform Cedefop’s work including the online EU+ Inventory of systems and practices populated through the efforts of Cedefop’s CareersNet independent experts, and cooperation with national reference groups.
High-quality guidance and career support act together with other measures and policy fields recognised as helping achieve the aims of public policies supporting comprehensive skills development and social cohesion. They help connect and integrate other services and areas essential to lifelong learning, in turn, fostering societies that are more resilient, productive, sustainable and fair.
During the event, drawing on these wider perspectives and the structure of the framework and its essential messages, participants will hear from knowledgeable speakers and stakeholders, facilitating reflection. Focus will be placed on multifaceted implications for policy, implementation, research and frontline services across different contexts and for different actors in the wider ecosystems.
Join us as we present this new framework and explore how it can help shape the future of lifelong guidance across Europe.
Registration for invited participants will open in due time. Spaces are limited and interested individuals should contact the organisers further below for more information.
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