Education, Youth, Culture and Sport Council (Education), 08/11/2019, 8 November 2019

Main results

Education

Based on a presidency discussion paper, ministers of finance and education held a public debate on the following topic: 'A strong economic base for Europe: pursuing effectiveness, efficiency and quality in education and training'. This was the first opportunity for ministers of finance and education to exchange views on the importance of human capital as the foundation of Europe’s welfare. The discussion emphasized European Council’s ambition to step up investment in people’s skills and education.

Education and training are some of the best investments a society can make. Investment in education generates welfare and jobs, and fosters sustainable growth. To build a stronger Europe we need to ensure everyone has access to high quality education throughout their life.

Li Andersson, Minister of Education of Finland

• Discussion paper on a strong economic base for Europe

Early childhood, education and care

Education ministers held a lunch debate on early childhood education and care.

The Council adopted conclusions on the key role of lifelong learning policies in empowering societies to address the technological and green transition in support of inclusive and sustainable growth.

• Council conclusions on the role of lifelong learning policies

European Education Area

Ministers adopted a resolution on further developing the European Education Area. The resolution deals with the role of future-oriented education and training systems in the context of the ongoing discussions on the future of Europe as well as in the implementation of the New Strategic Agenda 2019-2024 adopted by the European Council in June 2019.

• Resolution on further developing the European Education Area
• European Education Area

Artificial intelligence in education and training

Ministers also held a debate on the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in education and training based on a presidency discussion paper.

• Discussion paper on Artificial intelligence in education and training

Any other business

The Slovenian delegation briefed ministers on its proposal to establish the International Research Centre on Artificial Intelligence (IRCAI) under the auspices of UNESCO.

• Information note from the Slovenian delegation on International Research Centre on Artificial Intelligence under the auspices of UNESCO

The incoming Croatian presidency presented its work programme in the area of education.