NEWS

from the FEDE

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ORGANISATION FOR ECONOMIC CO-OPERATION AND DEVELOPMENT (OECD)

The OECD recently published a ‘Policy Paper on Policies for Transnational Collaboration in Higher Education’. The document explores key challenges and actionable policy approaches to foster effective cross-border collaboration among higher education institutions. Drawing on international experience, it proposes six policy approaches: adopting cross-government approaches; enhancing international compatibility of regulations; incentivising collaboration through funding; strengthening institutional capacity for internationalisation; supporting diverse forms of engagement; and promoting symmetrical engagement. 

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The OECD is organising a webinar entitled ‘Aligning teaching with the future of learning’ on 24 June from 13:00 to 14:30 (Paris time). What kind of teaching do we need for the future we want? As global expectations for learners rise, so too do the demands placed on our teachers. While many education systems focus on what students should learn to thrive in an uncertain future, they also need to consider how to best support teachers so they, in turn, can help their students grow. 

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The OECD is organising a webinar entitled ‘Empowering the workforce: Moving beyond degrees in a skills-first era’ on 24 June from 16:00 to 17:00 (Paris time). With slower hiring affecting many sectors, traditional hiring practices need to be rethought. A new OECD report explores the skills-first approach, which focuses on proven ability rather than formal credentials, and can redefine how people get hired, promoted and trained.

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The OECD is organising a webinar entitled ‘Trends Spotting: Strategic foresight for tomorrow’s education systems’ on 5 June from 13:00 to 14:00 (Paris time). Future education systems will be shaped by rising geopolitical tensions, rapid technological changes and big shifts in the world of work. This webinar will present the OECD report named ‘Trends Shaping Education 2025’ which aims to help policy makers and educators navigate this uncertainty by analysing global trends and their potential implications for education.

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On 3 April, the OECD published a report entitled ‘Unlocking High-Quality Teaching’. The document aims to deepen understanding of the complexities of teaching and its multifaceted nature as a discipline grounded in scientific research, but so too an art requiring creativity and a craft necessitating constant collaborative reflection and improvement.

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The OECD is organising a webinar entitled ‘The teaching profession reimagined: Adapting to a changing world’ on 23 April from 14:00 to 15:00 (Paris time). The teaching profession and the environments that support it are evolving. This is prompting education systems to rethink career pathways, strengthen teacher autonomy and foster a healthy, sustainable working environment. A diverse and flexible profession that values specialisation, collaboration and continuous learning can support teachers and attract new talent to the profession.

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The OECD is organising a webinar entitled ‘Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data privacy in the workplace’ on 16 April from 14:30 to 15:45 (Paris time). The growing integration of AI in the world of work will likely result in greater collection and analysis of data on workers and job.  How can workers’ personal data be protected, whilst at the same time enabling employers to operate their businesses effectively?

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On 28 March from 13:00 to 14:00 (Paris time), the OECD is organising a webinar entitled ‘Women, girls and Artificial Intelligence (AI): Paving the way to a balanced digital future’. As AI reshapes the global workforce, how can we ensure it narrows, rather than widens, gender gaps? This OECD webinar will bring together experts to examine AI’s impact on women’s employment opportunities, the role of education in closing digital divides, and strategies to make AI more inclusive.

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The OECD is hosting a webinar titled ‘Improving Skills Outcomes Through Stronger Coordination and Stakeholder Engagement’, scheduled for 18 March from 15:30 to 16:30 (Paris time). As labour market demands evolve rapidly, education and training systems must adapt accordingly. Ensuring they deliver the right skills at the right time requires strong governance mechanisms. During this event, the OECD Centre for Skills will showcase best practices for enhancing skills system governance.

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In December 2024, the OECD published a report entitled ‘Quality Matters: Strengthening the Quality Assurance of Adult Education and Training (AET)’. This document analyzes the changing landscape of AET, maps existing quality assurance systems across OECD member countries, and introduces a comparative framework.

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On 23 January, the OECD published a report entitled "Trends Shaping Education 2025". The document explores global megatrends that are shaping societies in the 38 OECD member countries through an educational lens. By imagining possible scenarios and exploring diverse possibilities, it enables education decision-makers and stakeholders to make well-informed, resilient, and adaptive decisions.

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In December 2024, the OECD published a report titled “Training Supply for the Green and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Transitions – Equipping workers with the right skills”. As the green transition accelerates and AI reshapes business operations, equipping workers with the right skills has become a pressing priority. But are countries prepared for this shift? The report examines the policies of the 38 OECD countries and finds that while investments in green skills are on the rise, policies for developing AI-related skills are lagging, often lacking a focused approach.

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UNESCO

On 10 September, UNESCO is organising a webinar entitled 'Teachers as lifelong learners and facilitators of lifelong learning' from 13:00 to 14:30 (Paris time). Today, teachers face multifaceted responsibilities and experience radical changes in society and education. Beyond facilitating the acquisition of knowledge, they help learners develop essential skills and attitudes. To meet the evolving demands of their profession, teachers must continuously develop and improve their knowledge, skills, and practices. In this context, this webinar will present the recent initiative launched by UNESCO to rethink the roles of teachers.

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On 18 June, UNESCO celebrates the International Day for countering hate speech. Hate speech in the form of xenophobia, racism, antisemitism, anti-Muslim hatred, anti-LGBTQI+ hatred, misogyny and other types of intolerance is on the rise worldwide, spreading faster through social media. Both online and offline, hate speech targets and dehumanizes people and groups based on who they are.  Through its many programmes, UNESCO fights against hate speech through media and information education.

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UNESCO launched a Call for applications in the frame of the ‘Youth for Peace: Intercultural Leadership Programme’. This programme is an initiative designed to equip emerging leaders with the skills, knowledge, and resources to champion intercultural dialogue as a strategy to address pressing global challenges. Interested people aged 25–45, passionate about building bridges across cultures are invited to apply until 22 June.

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In the frame of its World Conference on Cultural Policies and Sustainable Development (MONDIACULT 2025) that will take place in Barcelona from 29 September to 1st October, UNESCO invites all stakeholders to submit publications, technical papers, consultations reports, creative writings, and short videos addressing one or more of the Conference’s eight key themes: Cultural rights; Digital technologies in the culture sector; Culture and education; Economy of culture; Culture and climate action ; Culture, heritage and crisis ; Culture for peace ; Artificial Intelligence and culture. 

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UNESCO is organising the Digital Learning Week from 2 to 5 September 2025 in Paris, under the theme “Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the future of education: Disruptions, dilemmas and directions”. This event aims to foster critical reflection, peer learning and policy dialogue, addressing today’s pressing challenges while shaping the future of education in an era of rapid technological change.

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In the frame of the Greening Education Partnership (GEP) which aims to green 50% of schools by 2030, UNESCO developed the Green School Quality Standard. This standard aims to establish global basic requirements for climate-ready green schools, involving the holistic integration of climate change and sustainability through the whole-institution approach to Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). More than 80,000 schools around the globe are currently aligned with this Green School Quality Standard. 

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UNESCO is currently conducting a global survey on Quantum Science and Technology, open until 30 April. Stakeholders are invited to take part in the survey, whose findings will help shape strategies for inclusive and sustainable growth in the field.

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The UNESCO Prize for the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) in Education recognises innovative approaches in leveraging new technologies to expand educational and lifelong learning opportunities. The theme of the 2025 edition is ‘Preparing learners and teachers for the ethical and responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI)’. Interested parties are invited to submit their application by 28 April.

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UNESCO published a global report entitled ‘Leadership in education: lead for learning’. This document argues that, in pursuing specific goals, education leaders are more than just managers. They are change agents, who need the time, trust and support to focus on setting a vision and developing the people they serve and work with. 

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In the frame of the UNESCO-Japan Prize on Education for sustainable development (ESD), funded by the Government of Japan, organisations and entities engaged in ESD are invited to send their application. The Prize recognises the role of education in connecting the social, economic, cultural and environmental dimensions of sustainable development. The deadline for submission is 18 April.

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To mark the second International Day for Digital Learning, UNESCO is hosting a webinar titled ‘Digital Learning Realities in Low-Resourced Contexts’, taking place on 19 March from 12:30 to 14:30 (Paris time). Experts, educators, and learners from Brazil, Namibia, the Republic of Korea, and Uzbekistan will share best practices for overcoming systemic challenges and promoting digital learning quality and equity in underserved educational environments.

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UNESCO will host the next edition of Digital Learning Week (DLW) from 2 to 5 September in Paris and online, under the theme ‘Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the futures of education’. Key topics will include: the current influence of AI on pedagogy, teachers, assessment, curriculum design and education management; strategies for education stakeholders, policymakers and teachers to lead the co-creation of ethical, inclusive and equitable AI by design; the use of foresight and related methodologies to explore inclusive futures for AI in education. 

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UNESCO recently published a report entitled ‘Languages matter: Global guidance on multilingual education’. The linguistic landscape has evolved significantly in recent years, shaped by migration, technological developments, and growing recognition of multilingualism’s cognitive, social and economic benefits. This guide provides updated principles for language-in-education policies, positioning multilingualism as a fundamental educational approach. 

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UNESCO recently published AI competency frameworks - one for students and one for teachers - available in both English and French. These publications aim to help educators and students integrate artificial intelligence (AI) learning objectives into official school curricula, preparing students to become responsible and creative citizens in the AI era. By guiding teachers and students on both the use and potential misuse of AI in education, these documents define the essential knowledge, skills, and values that educators and learners must master in the age of AI.

> AI competency framework for teachers

> AI competency framework for students

On 21 February, UNESCO celebrates International Mother Language Day to reaffirm its commitment to linguistic diversity and multilingualism. Linguistic diversity is increasingly at risk, as more languages disappear, and 40% of the global population lacks access to education in a language they speak or understand.

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UNESCO has elaborated diverse collection of podcasts that reflect its mission to build peace in the minds of men and women through education, science, culture and communication. These podcasts explore a wide range of topics, including Education for Sustainable Development; Media and Information Literacy; Leadership for Equality; etc. ​

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EUROPEAN COMMISSION

From 7 to 16 November, the Commission is organising an event called ‘DigiEduHack’ which is a global initiative that invites stakeholders to imagine and shape the future of education through digital innovation. This event brings together students, educators, entrepreneurs, researchers, and tech experts from around the world to tackle the most important challenges in education. 

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On 13 June, the European Commission published a report entitled ‘Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) Outlook Report : Exploring the Intersection of Technology, Society and Policy’. This document indicates that GenAI has the potential to bring significant social and economic impact in the EU, and that a comprehensive and nuanced policy approach is needed to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the GenAI while ensuring that technological developments are fully aligned with EU democratic values. 

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The Commission published an analytical report entitled ‘Enhancing education through learning for sustainability: An explorative review of broader benefits’. This document reveals some learning benefits of learning for sustainability (LfS) related to basic skills, transversal skills, psychological benefits, and institutional benefits. 

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The Commission has opened four new Calls for proposals under the Digital Europe Programme (DIGITAL) with a total budget of €140 million to support Artificial Intelligence (AI) development, boost digital skills, and accelerate digitalisation in Europe. The deadline for applications is 2 September.

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On 9 April, the Commission launched the ‘Artificial Intelligence (AI) Continent Action Plan’ which aims to ensure that EU workforce is equipped to drive and sustain technological progress. This strategy will focus on 5 key areas: building a large-scale AI data and computing infrastructure; increasing access to large and high-quality data; developing algorithms and fostering AI adoption in strategic EU sectors; strengthening AI skills and talents to promote education and learning, and to attract IT experts and researchers in the EU; regulatory simplification.

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The Commission has launched a public consultation, inviting citizens and stakeholders to express their views on the EU’s next long-term budget and its key policy priorities. The consultation will remain open until 6 May. You can access the questionnaire on EU funding for cross-border education, training and solidarity, young people, media, culture, and creative sectors, and civil society.

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The Commission has published a paper entitled ‘Labour market transitions and skills investment needs of a green transition – a new approach’. This paper explores how the green transition is transforming jobs across key industries and highlights the persistent gaps in training provision. Achieving the EU’s targets will require up to 145,000 more skilled workers and €1.4 billion in training investments by 2030.

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The European Commission has recently published a working paper entitled ‘Future-oriented occupations in the EU: main features, employment conditions, and job strain’. The green and digital transitions are transforming jobs across the EU, leading to labour shortages and shifting skill requirements. The paper explores how these dynamics are affecting working conditions and job quality.

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On 5 March 2025, the European Commission published its long-awaited Communication titled 'Union of Skills'. This document serves as a roadmap outlining key proposals to enhance high-quality education, training, and lifelong learning. It aims to raise levels of basic and advanced skills, provide opportunities for individuals to regularly update and acquire new skills, facilitate recruitment for businesses across the EU, and attract, develop, and retain top talent in Europe.

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On 11 February 2025, the European Commission published its Work Programme, outlining key priorities in competitiveness, digital transformation, and sustainability. The document addresses skills shortages through education, vocational education and training (VET), and AI-driven learning. Key objectives include reducing bureaucracy, strengthening social policies, and advancing both the green and digital transitions.

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On 19 December 2024, the European Commission published a report on European degree (label) projects. The report’s findings will inform future Erasmus+ initiatives, including the establishment of a European Degree Policy Lab and other related actions in 2025.

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EUROPEAN UNION (EU)

The Erasmus Student Network (ESN) has launched the new edition of its ESNsurvey. This survey is a Europe-wide research project covering different topics concerning mobility and education. It seeks to monitor the implementation of mobility programmes and the experience of international learners abroad, as well as the perceptions of students who have not participated in international student mobility so far.

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The INFINITE project is an EU funded project aiming to make the best use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for teaching, learning and assessment in Higher Education. The main objective is to prepare academics to use AI for innovative teaching and assessment, promoting students’ understanding of the interdisciplinary nature and implications of these emerging technologies. It also aims to help students to leverage AI for their learning, through a complementary course designed for them.

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The European Training Foundation (ETF) is an EU agency supporting EU neighbouring countries in reforming their education and training systems as part of EU’s external relations policies. The ETF is organising a webinar entitled ‘How to leverage innovation and socio-economic development by building effective skills ecosystems’ on 17 March from 10:00 to 11:30 (Paris time). 

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On 5 and 6 March, the Commission is organizing a conference entitled “Skills for a competitive Europe” in Brussels and online. Labour and skills shortages are increasing across Europe, while productivity continues to decline. The EU requires modern labour markets and skills, both to support individuals’ careers and prospects and to remain globally competitive. This event will tackle key issues at the intersection of employment, competencies, and social policies.

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The Artificial Intelligence Skills Alliance (ARISA) equips individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to understand and utilise AI tools in business and policy settings. ARISA brings together leading representative bodies from the Information and communication technology (ICT) sector, education and training providers, qualification regulatory authorities, and a broad range of industry stakeholders and social partners.

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EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT (EP)

The European Parliament (EP) recently published a study titled 'Academic Freedom in 2024: Key Findings and Policy Options'. This concise document examines the state of academic freedom across EU Member States, identifying key threats and legal protections. It offers insights and policy recommendations to safeguard academic freedom at both national and EU levels.

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On 11 February, the Intergroup on the Future of Education and Skills for a Competitive Europe was officially launched at the European Parliament (EP) in Strasbourg. Chaired by the Romanian Vice-President of the EP, Victor Negrescu, this Intergroup aims to enhance the quality, equity, and inclusiveness of education and training systems across Europe. This marks the first time an Intergroup on Education has been established at the EP.

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COUNCIL OF EUROPE (CoE)

On 8 and 9 October, the Council of Europe is organising a conference entitled ‘Ensuring Quality Education in the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Era’ in Strasbourg. This event will mark the official launch of the CoE’s AI Compass for Education. This new strategic tool structured around four components – Literacy, Practice, Evaluation, Regulation and Governance – will provide member states and stakeholders with standards and guidance in ensuring that the use of AI be ethical in educational institutions. The CoE launched an open call for the participation of experts, and applications will be assessed based on relevant work experience in the regulation of AI systems in schools. 

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On 5 June, the CoE’s Group of States against corruption (GRECO) published its 2024 report entitled ‘Anti-corruption trends, challenges and good practices in Europe & the United States’. This document expresses deep concern at the persistent threats to the independence of the judiciary in certain Member States and urges them to strengthen the structures ensuring the separation of powers.

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The CoE’s Education Department  published a guidance document for the implementation of the Reference Framework of Competences for Democratic Culture (RFCDC) in Vocational Education and Training (VET). The RFCDC sets out 20 competences that learners need to develop to live and participate as active citizens in democratic societies. Drawn up by a Group of experts of which the FEDE has been a member since 2022, this new document presents how the RFCDC can be used and implemented in VET. 

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In 2025, the Council of Europe is celebrating the ‘European Year of Digital Citizenship Education’, an initiative in which the FEDE is a partner. This campaign aims to address the urgent need to greater investment and action in digital citizenship education, in response to emerging challenges and opportunities, particularly those brought about by the widespread use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools.

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To mark World NGO Day, the Council of Europe (CoE) is hosting a webinar on 28 February from 13:00 to 16:15 (Paris time), featuring guest speakers from civil society organisations and experts. The discussions will explore strategies for strengthening NGO sustainability, including building socially impactful organisations, increasing long-term impact, ensuring financial stability, and adapting to evolving societal needs.

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EUROPEAN ALLIANCE FOR APPRENTICESHIPS (EAFA)

The EAfA is organising a High-Level Event on 30 June and 1 July in Brussels. This conference aims to explore how apprenticeships can provide learners with the right skills to find a job, as well as to discuss how the Commission can help develop the EU’s human capital, including through enhanced gender equality within apprenticeships, notably in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).

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On 16 January, the EAfA published its 2025 Action Plan to contribute to fostering high-quality apprenticeships in the EU and beyond. This document highlights innovation and cooperation as key factors in addressing the challenges of a rapidly evolving world.

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EUROPEAN CENTER FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF VOCATIONAL TRAINING (CEDEFOP)

Artificial intelligence (AI) is the next general-purpose technology reshaping the labour market, jobs and skills. Some months ago, CEDEFOP published its first European survey focused on the use and impact of AI in jobs. The survey examines the extent to which employers may support workers in mitigating AI skill gaps. It shows that more than a quarter of the European adult workforce is already experimenting with the use of AI at work. With 6 in 10 employees susceptible to some form of AI-related task transformation, investing in AI literacy will be a crucial driver of a human-centred AI revolution that can boost EU competitiveness. 

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CEDEFOP is currently leading an online survey on microcredentials. Interested parties are invited to share their input on microcredentials for education and training by participating in this survey by 27 June. The main objective is to build an inventory of how microcredentials are structured, delivered and recognised across Europe.

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The CEDEFOP is organising a virtual conference entitled “The impact of learning outcomes on teaching and learning – policy choices ahead” on 13 June from 09:45 to 13:30 (Paris time). The event aims to explore how learning outcomes shape teaching practices, assessment strategies, and policy in Vocational Education and Training (VET).

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CEDEFOP recently published an article on the gender gap in Vocational and Education Training (VET). Despite progress in gender equality, women remain significantly underrepresented in VET, especially in scientific and technical fields. To address this, several European countries have launched initiatives to break stereotypes, encourage gender balance, and promote inclusion in VET and lifelong learning. This paper presents a few success stories that could change the trend.

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CEDEFOP recently launched an information hub on validation of non-formal learning. The new platform supports countries in developing systems to recognise skills gained outside formal education. It links European guidelines with national practices, promoting peer learning and helping individuals validate competences gained through work, volunteering or daily life. 

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On 1 and 2 April 2025, Cedefop and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) are co-hosting a symposium in Paris titled ‘New Fields for Apprenticeship’. The event will explore what constitutes a high-quality apprenticeship and will present research and case studies on the expansion of apprenticeships into new sectors.

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THE SHIFT PROJECT​​

The Shift Project is a think tank that aims to inform and influence the debate on energy transition in France and Europe. In cooperation with several partners, including Acteurs de la compétence, France's leading vocational training federation, the Shift Project has just published a report entitled ‘Training the workforce for the ecological transition’.

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EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP NETWORK EUROPE (ELNE)

The ELNE is an EU-funded project aiming to gather, develop and disseminate good practice in the field of educational leadership. Recently published, the 4th edition of the ELNE Journal entitled ‘Building School Resilience’ highlights innovative practices and research that bolster schools' capacity to adapt. This edition features contributions from ELNE's European Educational Leadership Week 2025, during which experts discussed strategies for fostering supportive school cultures and sustainable leadership.

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As part of the Erasmus+ project ELNE, the FEDE is hosting a webinar titled ‘Collaborating for Better Training: Shared Perspectives on Leadership in Vocational Education and Training (VET)’, taking place on 18 March from 14:00 to 15:15 (Paris time). The webinar aims to enhance understanding of collaborative leadership in vocational training and highlight its key role in fostering personal development, professional success, and citizenship skills. 

​> Webinar’s concept note

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INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITIES (IAU)

The IAU published a report entitled ‘Open Science: The Challenge for universities’. The document provides recommendations on how universities can contribute to shaping the way forward. If a new era of open science is to become a reality and open new doors of possibility, universities must rise to the challenge and embed new approaches to open science within their structures and priorities. This report informs universities about the key issues and opportunities at stake in this transformation and proposes recommendations as for why and how universities can play a leadership role.

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The IAU together with the Council of Europe is organising a conference entitled ‘Global Forum on Higher Education 2025: Renewal of the Democratic and Civic Mission’ on 3 and 4 June at Charles University in Prague. Democracy is in crisis throughout the world, with political developments threatening the democratic principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. Higher education, science, and research are faced with significant challenges. More than ever, schools and universities have an important role to play in the development and preservation of democratic societies. 

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In 2025, we continue to face significant environmental, social, and economic challenges. Higher education institutions play a pivotal role in preparing leaders to address these challenges effectively. In this context, the International Association of Universities (IAU) is hosting a webinar titled 'Learning from Practice: How Can We Better Embed Sustainability in Higher Education?' on 25 March, with two available sessions: from 09:00 to 10:00 and from 15:00 to 16:00 (Paris time). 

​> First session registration

​> Second session registration

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EUROPEAN FEDERATION OF EDUCATION EMPLOYERS (EFEE)​​

In the frame of the TeacherEd project, the EFEE published several documents on capacity building of education employers through the promotion of teacher induction programmes. These resources have been designed to inform and guide education stakeholders on the topic of new teacher induction. They provide insights and practical tools for education employers, policymakers, school leaders, and all entities working to strengthen early career teacher support.

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The EFEE is organising a seminar entitled ‘Promoting inclusion of persons with special needs in education’ on 22 and 23 May in Paris. Organised in the framework of the social dialogue project InclEdu4AllNeeds, this event aims to exchange good practices to ensure the full inclusion of people with special needs in the education system and education and employment policies.

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ELECTRONIC PLATFORM FOR ADULT LEARNING IN EUROPE (EPALE) ​​

Given the rapid changes in the labour market and the constant evolution of technologies, lifelong learning needs to be agile, responsive and accessible to all. Micro-credentials offer an innovative solution to meet the needs of an ever-changing workforce. EPALE recently published an interesting article entitled ‘Micro-credentials: towards flexible recognition of skills’.

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UNITED NATIONS (UN)​​

Since 1973, on 5 June, the UN celebrate World Environment Day which is the largest global platform for environmental public outreach. To keep global warming below 1.5°C this century, it is needed to halve annual greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. Without action, exposure to air pollution will increase by 50 per cent within the decade and plastic waste flowing into aquatic ecosystems will nearly triple by 2040.

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