Discussions on the future of education, youth participation in policymaking, and the role of skills are beginning today, Monday, in Brussels at the European Union’s Education, Youth, Culture and Sport Council. Key topics on the Council’s agenda include the Erasmus+ programme, basic skills within the framework of the European Education Area, the EU Youth Strategy beyond 2027, and the use of artificial intelligence in education.
Speaking ahead of the meeting, Cyprus Minister of Education, Sport and Youth, Athena Michaelidou, said the Council reflects the vision of the Cypriot Presidency for an autonomous Union open to the world, stressing that Europe’s future is closely linked to investing in people, empowering citizens, and creating opportunities for young people.
Michaelidou, who will chair the meeting, noted that Ministers are expected to approve the partial negotiating mandate for the Erasmus+ programme, which she described as one of the European Union’s most important and successful initiatives. She underlined that the programme is directly linked to the Multiannual Financial Framework and offers mobility opportunities to millions of young people, while also strengthening European identity.
Referring to the Council’s discussions, the Minister also highlighted the importance of basic skills for social cohesion, citizens’ resilience, and Europe’s overall strength, noting that the issue will be examined within the context of the European Education Area.
She also placed particular emphasis on youth participation in decision-making, stressing that youth policies should be developed together with young people, and not merely for young people. In this context, she noted that discussions are already underway on the EU Youth Strategy beyond 2027.
Regarding artificial intelligence in education, Michaelidou said Ministers are expected to approve Council conclusions on AI and teachers. She stressed that teachers must be supported and equipped with the necessary skills to use new technologies effectively and responsibly within a pedagogical framework.
Concluding, the Minister said the two-day discussions reflect the Cypriot Presidency’s commitment to investing in people, encouraging citizens’ participation, and creating opportunities for skills development, empowerment, and active engagement in European life.
The EU Council will meet today in the configuration of Education and Youth Ministers, while tomorrow, Tuesday, it will convene in the configuration of Culture and Sport Ministers.