On November 23rd, the European Council adopted a set of recommendations on the key factors promoting the success of digital education and training, as well as on improving the provision of digital skills in the field of education and training.
Through this set of recommendations, the European Council responds to a dual need: adapting education to a true digital transformation and enabling it to stay in line with our times while providing the skills that are and will remain essential in this new reality.
Digital skills must be accessible to the entire population, in all age groups and backgrounds. And each school, educational institution, and training center should duly consider both the risks and opportunities presented by technology.
Pilar Alegría, Spanish Minister of Education, Vocational Training, and Sports
Four out of five people will need basic digital skills by 2030
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need to improve the digital readiness of education and training systems in terms of resilience, accessibility, high quality, and inclusion. Furthermore, considering the commitment made within the framework of the ‘Digital Decade,’ the EU’s goal is for 80% of the population aged 16 to 74 to have at least basic digital skills by 2030.
In parallel, in the context of the European Year of Skills 2023, it is more justified than ever to focus on the needs of education and training in digital transformation, taking action at all levels (pre-primary, primary, secondary, vocational, and higher education, adult education), with a lifelong learning perspective, and for all population groups (such as youth, adults, and professionals).
Digital Skills
The European Council’s text on digital skills adopted today recommends that Member States agree on national and, where appropriate, regional strategies or strategic approaches regarding digital education and skills. It invites them:
- To set national goals for the provision of these skills and competences, or to review these goals.
- To take measures targeting « priority groups or those hard to reach. »
- To strengthen digital skills in primary and secondary education.
- To promote the cross-cutting teaching of digital skills in various subjects.
- To enhance digital skills for all higher education students, providing learning opportunities at all levels and in all disciplines.
- To give adults the opportunity to acquire digital skills and address the shortage of ICT professionals.
Success of Digital Education and Training
At the same time, the European Council’s recommendation on the key factors promoting the success of digital education and training emphasizes how to adapt education and training systems to the digital era. It provides guidance on preparing citizens to use technology creatively, safely, and responsibly, with a good understanding of its functioning.
Among other measures, it encourages Member States:
- To integrate digital technologies into education and empower teachers to use them.
- To support the development of digital educational tools, including research on the impact of artificial intelligence.
- To take cybersecurity measures in the field of education and training, including awareness.
- To invest in connectivity, digital infrastructure, and digital accessibility in education and training.
Source: European Commission, press release of November 23, 2023.
