EU: Day of Education. “Essential to achieve a just and sustainable development, and tackle inequalities”

The European Commission and the High Representative Josep Borrell issued the following joint statement today ahead of the International Day of Education on 24 January: “Education and lifelong learning are essential to achieve a just and sustainable development, and tackle inequalities, through dialogue, solidarity, mutual understanding and cooperation, inclusive, democratic and participatory governance, and gender equality. At the same time, they are key to protecting, sustaining and building peace”. “Education enables individuals and societies to survive and thrive and be prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. Together with arts and culture, it broadens horizons, allowing people, in particular youth, to imagine, advocate for, and build different futures. Education also plays a key role in building and strengthening people-to-people ties and networks, and brings hope and protection to those affected by humanitarian crises and forced displacement”. And they added: “We will notably continue working so that every child and young person can access education, no matter who they are or where they live. Inside the EU, we continue to build the European Education Area as our long-term, shared vision”. Initiatives such as Erasmus+ “also promote global citizenship education. They equip individuals with the competences necessary to navigate periods of uncertainty, reflect critically on their place in the world, and to respond and act in solidarity”.
Gianni Borsa