Switzerland attends informal meeting of EU education ministers in Ireland

Basic skills such as reading, writing, oral communication, mathematics, science and digital literacy are essential for participating in social, cultural, economic and political life. They also provide the foundation for lifelong learning, equipping individuals to adapt to rapid changes in technology, society, and the workplace. Many European countries have been grappling with a decline in basic skills among learners for decades. It is therefore particularly important for countries to make sustained efforts to strengthen these skills through their education policies. At the same time, there is a growing need to continuously identify and anticipate demand for other transferable and subject-specific skills.

During the meeting, participants discussed the challenges of strengthening basic skills and improving education systems' ability to anticipate future skills needs. They also considered effective policy approaches to addressing these challenges. Representatives also considered how closer European cooperation could support national policies in these areas. Silvia Studinger emphasised the high priority that Switzerland places on developing basic skills in its education policy. She highlighted the particular importance of vocational education and training, which is closely aligned with labour market needs, and institutional autonomy in ensuring an adaptable, inclusive education system that offers pathways between different types and levels of education. She also emphasised Switzerland's willingness to share good practices and cooperate with other countries in addressing these common education policy challenges. Studinger also took the opportunity to informally exchange views with her European counterparts on other current education policy issues.