Education and training have a fundamental role to play in achieving the Europe 2020 objectives of  smart, sustainable and inclusive growth, notably by equipping citizens with the skills and  competences which the European economy and European society need in order to remain competitive and innovative, but also by helping to promote social cohesion and inclusion.

The key role of education and training should therefore be fully reflected in the Council's work during the new 'European Semester' established from the beginning of 2011. In particular, and with the support of the Commission, the Council should ensure that issues such as policy measures and reforms in the field of education and training, their contribution to the European targets and the exchange of good policy and practice are fully addressed.

 

3066th Education, Youth, Culture and Sport Council meeting, Brussels, 14 February 2011