Why OBESSU went to Vilnius
On the 14th to 15th of May the European Civil Society Platform on Lifelong Learning (EUCIS-LLL) organised their Annual Conference and General Assembly in Vilnius, Lithuania, the next country to have the EU presidency OBESSU, as a member of EUCIS-LLL, joined the event to represent the school students of Europe.
The participants, members of EUCIS-LLL and other civil society representatives, were welcomed to Lithuania by Genoveita Krasauskiene, the Lithuanian Vice-Minister of Education and Science. The theme of this year’s Annual conference was: ”Rethinking learning – transversal competences in the spotlight”. Thus the frame for the conference was set by the ”Rethinking education: investing in skills for better economic and social outcomes” Communication by the European Commission published in November 2012 The Communication calls forMember States to put an effort in further development of transversal skills, in particular entrepreneurial and digital skills and language learning. During the conference participants reflected on how transversal skills are taught in Europe today and how the learning can be improved.
The opening speeches were given by Pierre Mairesse from the Directorate General for Education and Culture of the European Commission and Emeritus Professor Alistair Ross from London Metropolitan University. Mr Mairesse explained the idea of the Communication to a critical audience, and Professor Ross talked about the importance of citizenship skills and was critical towards several parts in the Communication.
After the opening of the Conference, the participants were divided into four different workshops to discuss different aspects of education: citizenship skills, entrepreneurship, digital competences and the joy of learning. OBESSU took part in the workshop on citizenship skills stressing the importance of school student participation in schools in order for young people to learn about democracy and participation by being part of it themselves and through this become active citizens.
The EUCIS-LLL General Assembly took place on the second day in Vilnius. The General Assembly adopted a new work plan for the upcoming year and elected a new steering committee. The General Assembly also welcomed one new member to jointhe platform!
Read more about what EUCIS-LLL is on their website here!
Have you already seen the OBESSU reaction to ”Rethinking education”? Find it here.
