22.07.2024

EAEA’s take on von der Leyen’s re-election: important commitments on skills and adult learning

EAEA welcomes the re-election of Ursula von der Leyen as President of the European Commission on July 18. Von der Leyen’s previous Commission has led crucial initiatives to put skills and adult learning at the top of the political agenda, notably the European Year of Skills 2023.

EAEA welcomes the re-election of Ursula von der Leyen as President of the European Commission on July 18. Von der Leyen’s previous Commission has led crucial initiatives to put skills and adult learning at the top of the political agenda, notably the European Year of Skills 2023. EAEA is pleased to see a renewed commitment to Adult Learning and Education (ALE) among the most prominent priorities of the Political Guidelines for the next European Commission 2024−2029.  

We will establish a Union of Skills – focusing on investment, adult and lifelong learning, skill retention and the recognition of different types of training to enable people to work across our Union.

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission 2024−2029 

It is instrumental that the momentum built with the European Year of Skills is translated into meaningful, impactful and long-lasting change and, to this end, a Union of Skills is of paramount importance. In this process, we call the new Commission to value and recognise all types of learning both for the labour market and for personal development, social inclusion, solidarity, democratic participation, health and wellbeing. 

Text: EAEA

02.10.2025 employment

Supporting the Porto targets through improved adult learning systems 

EAEA was present at the side event of the Porto Social Forum 2025.  The forum highlighted Europe's commitment to quality jobs, yet education and training remained underrepresented in the main discussions. Adult participation in learning must increase significantly. The RALExILA project, coordinated by EAEA, is contributing to this goal and improve transparency and flexibility of adult learning systems.

01.10.2025 digital literacy

Emerging technologies and adult learning: useful resources for educators

Emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) are already changing the way we learn and teach. These technologies can be embedded in different sectors, including adult education. While questions remain about their learning impact and ethical use in education, successful examples demonstrate their potential.

17.09.2025 just transition

Engage4BIO – Involving stakeholders in co-creation and regional innovation for sustainable development

The Engage4BIO project supported the uptake of bioeconomy and its practices at European and local level. All the resources and frameworks now available!