BAKGRUNN (fra Rådets pressemelding 10.2.2012, engelsk utgave)

The Council adopted the 2012 joint report on the implementation of the ”Strategic framework for European cooperation in the field of education and training ("ET 2020"), (5600/12). The report assesses actions and developments during the first cycle of implementing "ET 2020" (2009-2011) and establishes priorities for European policy cooperation during the next cycle (2012-14), which are aimed to a large extent at mobilising education and training in support of the Europe 2020 strategy.

The joint report presents a mixed picture of progress, with some positive indications but still much needed to be done to improve Europe's skills base, further reduce rates of early schoolleaving and improve the employability of those leaving the education and training system. The report stresses the importance of investing effectively in education and training reforms to support sustainable growth and generate jobs and underlines the need for a real follow-through by Member States on EU level policy guidance.