Thessaloniki, 7 February 2025 – The European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (Cedefop) celebrates 50 years of impact, empowering Europe’s workforce with the skills to navigate a rapidly evolving world. This milestone is made even more special by 30 years in Greece, with Thessaloniki as its home—a strategic gateway where European policies connect with classrooms and workplaces, helping build a future-ready labour market.
To mark this occasion, Greek Minister of Labour and Social Security Niki Kerameus, alongside Greek Deputy Minister of Education, Religious Affairs and Sport Ioanna Lytrivi, Member of the European Parliament Eleonora Meleti, Governor of DYPA (Greek Public Employment Service) Spyros Protopsaltis, as well as other authorities and key European officials, convened at Cedefop’s headquarters to celebrate its legacy and reaffirm a bold vision for the future of vocational education and training (VET) in Europe—one where digital transformation, sustainability, and inclusivity drive progress and prosperity for all.
A shared vision for Europe’s future
Niki Kerameus, Greek Minister of Labour and Social Security, stated: "Cedefop is a pillar of European and Greek employment policies—its expertise is shaping the future of work, skills, and lifelong learning. The world of work is transforming, and Cedefop is at the forefront, providing the intelligence Europe needs to make informed decisions. Greece is proud to host such a globally respected institution, whose work strengthens our workforce and economy."
Stelios Angeloudis, Mayor of Thessaloniki, highlighted the city's deep ties with Cedefop: "For 30 years, Thessaloniki has been home to Cedefop—an organisation that has grown alongside our city, fostering diversity, collaboration, and excellence. As we navigate global shifts in work and learning, Thessaloniki remains a gateway for knowledge exchange, innovation, and opportunity."
Mario Nava, Director-General, DG Employment, European Commission, underscored Cedefop’s impact: "Cedefop’s work has quietly shaped the lives of millions across Europe over the last 50 years—guiding policymakers, supporting businesses, and empowering individuals. From young learners to experienced workers, from SMEs to multinational companies, Cedefop provides the foundation for vocational education and training as a driving force behind Europe’s competitiveness."
Looking ahead: A new era for skills and learning
Jürgen Siebel, Executive Director of Cedefop, reflected on this milestone while setting the course for the future: "This is not just a celebration—it’s a turning point. For 50 years, Cedefop has shaped policies that equip people with the skills they need to succeed. But our work is far from done. As Europe faces new challenges—from digital disruptions to the green transition—Cedefop stands ready to lead, providing the evidence and insights that will drive innovation, opportunity, and prosperity for all. Skills, learning, and VET are at the heart of Europe’s future."
As Cedefop enters its next chapter, it remains committed to ensuring VET and skills development are enablers of resilience, innovation, and inclusive growth. With cutting-edge research and data-driven policy advice, Cedefop will continue to shape the future of Europe—from classrooms to workplaces.
Reactions
Niki Kerameus, Greek Minister of Labour and Social Security
"Cedefop is a true pillar of every EU and Member State effort in skills development and in better aligning education with the actual needs of the labour market. We are here to congratulate Cedefop on the fantastic work it has done over the years.
Greece, like all Member States, benefits greatly from Cedefop's excellent work, especially in an environment where data is constantly evolving. As the Ministry of Labour, we are very happy to work closely with Cedefop, and I would like to warmly congratulate every single employee for their outstanding contributions over the years."
Eleonora Meleti, Member of the European Parliament
"Happy birthday, Cedefop!
For 50 years, it has been a key pillar for European policy on vocational training, knowledge, and new skills. In a Europe that wants to be innovative, progressive, and competitive, new skills, lifelong learning, education, and re-training are valuable assets that we all need."
Ioanna Lytrivi, Greek Deputy Minister of Education, Religious Affairs and Sport
"Fifty years of Cedefop, thirty years in Greece! We are very happy to be here today to celebrate this beautiful anniversary. For the Ministry of Education, Cedefop is not only a European organisation in Greece—a great honor—but also a strategic partner, with a part of our heart beating at the core of Cedefop in Thessaloniki.
Members of the Ministry of Education participate in Cedefop Management Board, as well as in the apprenticeship community, the European Qualifications Framework, ReferNet, and more recently WorldSkills.
The Ministry of Education and Cedefop work hand in hand, and in recent years, their collaboration has become a strategic choice for strengthening vocational education and training in Greece."
Spyros Protopsaltis, Governor of DYPA (Greek Public Employment Service)
"At a time when skills shortages and mismatches in the labour markets are becoming a huge problem in many countries, the need for research, analysis, data, evidence, and best practices around skills development is one of the most important factors in designing effective policies. Cedefop plays a major role in that regard.
When I speak with my colleagues at the European Network of Public Employment Services, we always discuss how critical it is for us to access sources of information, data, and evidence, and Cedefop is the one providing them."
