European Vocational Skills Week (20-24 November)

Ahead of the next European Vocational Skills Week (20-24 November), European Commissioner Marianne Thyssen highlights the strategic importance of vocational education, training and skills in addressing today's Europe-wide challenges. In addition to a special feature on skills, a special snapshot presents three options for Europe’s social policy in the run up to 2025 that are open to discussion across Europe. There is a focus on new forms of work too, looking at steps that are being considered to help ensure all workers, including people in new forms of employment, have access to social protection and public employment services and that everybody benefits from proper work contracts. A feature on Greece reviews what the European Social Fund is doing to help the country launch a minimum income scheme.

Before and during the main week, activities and events to showcase excellence in vocational education and training will be rolled out across Europe. During the main week, a series of events/activities will also take place in Brussels (press conference, conference, workshops and closing event with award-giving). The week is underpinned by a sustained communication campaign.

The EU belive 

• Every single person is talented. Some talents may be obvious, some still hidden.
• Vocational education and training is a smart choice, is fun, and leads to excellence in education, high-quality jobs and increased employability.
• There are great vocational training opportunities that successfully prepare you for interesting and challenging careers, as well as active engagement in society.
• Vocational education and training is a desirable option for people of all ages, and prepares people for jobs the world over.
• Quality training develops the creative and innovative potential of learners.
• Upskilling and reskilling throughout life is key to improved job opportunities and better integration in society.
• Lifelong learning enhances social inclusion, diversity, and active citizenship.

ABC Note: Please find attatched: Social Agenda is a quarterly magazine providing an overview of the Commission's action is the area of employment, social affairs and inclusion. Each issue features a special dossier on a hot topic, analysis and interviews.