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

17.04.2026 twin transition

Ready, Steady, Think! Design Sprint approach for innovative curricula design

How can education better prepare learners for the green and digital transitions in the agrifood sector? EAEA addressed this question by leading a three-part Design Sprint workshop series to develop innovative and learner-centred curriculum ideas for Twin Transition Schools (TTS).

26.03.2026 AI

Literacy learning with AI – a pitfall or an effective support?

The role of artificial intelligence in learning evokes both hopes and concerns. A pilot course showed that AI can boost motivation and offer new insights in learning literacy, but its use requires pedagogical consideration and critical discussion.

23.03.2026 inclusion

From Inclusion to a Rights-based approach in Adult Learning and Education  

In adult learning and education, the language of “inclusion” is widely used. Yet an important question remains: have policies and practices truly moved beyond merely integrating specific groups in limited processes towards a deeper understanding of inclusion as a fundamental right for all learners?