The world of work is rapidly evolving, and skills and education are increasingly more vital to economic growth and social cohesion. Today EURASHE publishes its full reaction to the European Commission’s Communication on the Union of Skills, laying out a vision on how applied higher education can help to implement this key initiative to boost Europe’s competitiveness. Applied Sciences for the Union of Skills shows how applied universities are harnessing and nurturing talent in Europe, driving innovation, and closing skills gaps.
The European Commission committed to delivering the Union of Skills within the first 100 days of its mandate. Earlier this year Executive Vice-President Roxana Mînzatu met senior leaders of education and training providers, including EURASHE President Hannes Raffaseder, to understand how the sector can play a part in this crucial pan European effort to up and reskill the European population. On 5th March, the Union of Skills was presented during the European Social Forum. Applied Sciences for the Union of Skills includes a table on the key deliverables of the Communication, showing the relevance of applied universities, as well as committing EURASHE to specific actions.
Constant job evolution reinforces the need for agile higher education institutions. Applied universities are crucial in responding to these changes, by being close to the world of work and able to continuously update curricula. This ensures that graduates are equipped both with the most relevant up-to-date skills as well as horizontal, transversal, and future-proof competences.
EURASHE welcomes the firm commitment to continue investing in and developing the most promising policies and tools from flexible learning pathways and expansion of micro-credentials to the European Universities Initiative and Centres of Vocational Excellence. New initiatives, such as the STEM Education Strategic Plan, transnational university-business partnerships, and the Skills Portability Initiative are also highly welcomed.
Education, training, and employment are interconnected, yet often treated as separate policy areas. In line with EURASHE’s advocacy efforts, the Union of Skills demonstrates an increased ambition to bridge different types and levels of educational systems, particularly VET and higher education. The proposed European High-Level Skills Board should ensure this happens, through a comprehensive, multi-stakeholder and multi-sector dialogue on skills.
EURASHE members firmly believe that talent is everywhere—and that opportunities should be, too. They are committed to nurturing and unlocking individual talent and collective potential through high-quality education and skills ecosystems.
