The ETF’s latest mapping report on the progress of 27 countries in education and training from the EU’s neighbourhood regions and Central Asia shows a more homogeneous picture as many countries have passed through similar stages since the COVID-19 outbreak.
The key point from the transformation brought by the pandemic is not just the move to online distance learning, but the importance of learning throughout life as everyone – students, parents, teachers, those in schools and counterparts in governments, private and civic sectors – has had to rise to the challenge of new ways of learning and engagement.
From the pressure to act quickly at the beginning of the outbreak and necessity to prioritise measures at central and provider level, there is now more stability in education and training provision. In many countries data collection has started which is informing decisions on legislation or specific actions (such as buying equipment or increasing training), and decisions are being made on end-of-year assessments and final exams.
In all countries, there are concerns about the preparation and support for teachers and trainers, the quality and access to provision and reaching out to vulnerable groups, sustaining the actions and measures adopted, and the special requirements for practice-based learning. Recognition of these needs and willingness to capitalise on efforts made in response to the crisis are driving forward steps needed for future education and skills development... more
