Eurydice

Flanders is reinforcing primary education with ambitious attainment targets, focusing on Dutch and mathematics, alongside STEM and social skills. Early education prioritises Dutch, with structured minimum and aspirational targets. At least half of teaching time will be dedicated to Dutch and maths. Pupils who fail to meet Dutch benchmarks by primary school’s end must take on additional hours per week in secondary education. These measures underscore Flanders' commitment to academic excellence.

In February 2025, the Minister of Education and Merit has signed a Decree on the evaluation of school managers. The new procedures will be applied from school year 2024/2025 and the results will have an impact on the school managers’ salary.

On 21 February 2025, the Minister of Education and Merit has signed Decree no. 28 on the adoption of a national system for the evaluation of school managers.

The Hungarian government has taken the initiative to require higher education institutions to review their education activities regarding the use of artificial intelligence (AI). 

Following an amendment to the Act on Higher Education, Hungarian higher education institutions are now required to undertake a comprehensive review of their internal regulations. In particular, the study and examination rules of higher education systems on the use of AI are reviewed, with a deadline set for 1 September 2025.

The Ministry of Education, Religious Affairs, and Sports is pleased to announce the launch of the new "Skills4Life" Question Bank, available since February 12, 2025. This innovative tool, developed in collaboration with the University of Ioannina, is designed to help secondary education school students (Gymnasium and 10th grade) with enhancing their skills in Mathematics, Natural Sciences, and Reading Comprehension.

The digitalisation of education is a strategic priority for Ukraine, ensuring accessibility and innovation while addressing challenges exacerbated by the war. As part of a global trend driving sustainable development, it aligns with Ukraine's European integration pathway and is synchronised with the Digital Education Action Plan (2021-2027).

Knowledge extends beyond formal education, and the skills required for certain tasks often surpass what diplomas certify. This is particularly relevant for individuals navigating career transitions, as it is crucial for them to recognise and articulate their skills. In the German-speaking Community, the "ProfilPASS" supports this process. 

For the past five years, the Ministry has offered individual competency coaching through the ProfilPASS. It helps participants identify their strengths, aspirations and career visions.

The Spanish Government has introduced a new Royal Decree to establish a permanent procedure for accrediting basic competences gained through work experience or informal training. This initiative aims to help people to access vocational training, improve their employability, and promote lifelong learning. The process will be free, accessible, and aimed at supporting adults with low levels of qualifications.

In September 2024, the Autonome Hochschule Ostbelgien (AHS) launched a new bachelor’s degree program in Social Work, tailored to meet the specific needs of the local social sector.

According to the government of the German-speaking Community of Belgium, the program aims to counter the long-standing shortage of professionals in social work and education. These professions have been classified as shortage occupations in the region since 2016. While many local students pursue social work studies in Liège or Aachen, they often do not return to the regional job market.

“Schools for Victory” is an international campaign bringing together schools of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania to stand in solidarity with Ukraine. Students of Āgenskalns State Gymnasium in Rīga launched the campaign for the third year, inviting schools to collect donations for the soldiers of the Ukrainian army. Campaign period in Latvia ends on 28 February 2025. Last year in Latvia alone 100 schools collected over 10 tons of aid and this year all three Baltic countries are joining forces.