In June, Latvia officially took over the Presidency of the European Schools. The rotating presidency will start on 1 August 2025 and will last until the end of the next school year. During the Presidency, measures will be implemented to strengthen the identity and visibility of the European School System, as well as to promote closer cooperation with national education systems. 

The work of Latvia’s Presidency will be based on the renewed European Schools Mission and Vision Document, which pays special attention to European values, innovation, inclusive environments, and evidence-based approaches. This approach makes students better understand the role of schools, stimulates active involvement and prepares them for challenges in a changing world. During the Presidency, there is also planned to exchange views and experiences of Member States on the development opportunities of Accredited European Schools and the necessary support for their future.

The Minister of Education and Science Dace Melbārde emphasised:
"The European School system combines the educational experience of all Member States, promoting different language proficiency, cultural diversity and unity in Europe. It provides education that not only ensures the acquisition of valuable knowledge, but also brings European values ​​to life in everyday life – freedom, democracy, the rule of law and cooperation. These values ​​are also the foundation and strength of Latvian education, which shape our common future.”

At the same time, work will continue during the Presidency on the development of a support system for the emotional and social well-being of students and teachers in European Schools. Latvia's experience shows that a safe and inclusive environment is an essential prerequisite for successful learning and sustainable development of education.

Minister D. Melbārde stated: 
“We believe that the development of social and emotional competences and a safe, supportive educational environment are a priority for every education system. Latvia’s experience in educational work will allow us to make a significant contribution to the development of the European Schools’ well-being and support programmes.”

Latvia will continue to strengthen cooperation between European schools, support teachers and students, as well as promote new initiatives that will help strengthen the unity and values ​​of the European school community. The Presidency will also pay special attention to strengthening the role of the Latvian language in the European Schools’ system, proving that diversity and unity can coexist in Europe.

The results achieved and recommendations made during the Cyprus Presidency will be a significant support for the future work of the Latvian Presidency. The official handover meeting was attended by Andreas Beckmann, Secretary General of the European Schools, and Manuel Bordoy Verchili, Deputy Secretary General, as well as representatives from the trio partner countries – Cyprus and Lithuania.

For more information: 

• https://www.izm.gov.lv/lv/jaunums/latvija-simboliski-uzsak-eiropas-skolu-prezidenturu-ipasi-uzsverot-eiropas-vertibu-un-skolotaju-labbutibas-nozimi
• https://www.eursc.eu/en

Source: Eurydice Unit Latvia