9.12.2022
EN
Official Journal of the European Union
C 469/19
IV (Notices)
NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES
COUNCIL Council conclusions on supporting well-being in digital education (2022/C 469/04)
THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION
IN THE CONTEXT OF: 1.
The political discussions at the Gothenburg Social Summit in 2017, where it was stressed that 44 % of Europeans do not have basic digital skills, that 90 % of jobs in the future will require digital skills and competences, and that 40 % of European companies struggle to recruit ICT specialists.
Launching a reflection on the Future of Learning, to respond to future trends and the digital revolution, including artificial intelligence (AI), was one of the ideas discussed by European leaders on that occasion.
2.
The first principle of the European Pillar of Social Rights, namely, that everyone has the right to quality and inclusive education, training and life-long learning in order to maintain and acquire skills that enable them to participate fully in society and manage successfully transitions in the labour market.
3.
The communication from the Commission on achieving the European Education Area by 2025, which underlines the need to create supportive learning environments for groups at risk of underachievement and to support well-being at school.
4.
The Council Resolution on a strategic framework for European cooperation in education and training towards the European Education Area and beyond (2021-2030), which stresses that education and training have a vital role to play in shaping the future of Europe, at a time when it is essential for citizens to find personal fulfilment and wellbeing, to be prepared to adapt and perform on a changing labour market and to engage in active and responsible citizenship.
5.
The Digital Education Action Plan (2021-2027), which outlines the concept of a high-performing digital education ecosystem and stresses the importance of digital skills and competence development for everyday life.
6.
The ongoing structured dialogue on digital education and skills with Member States, launched by the Commission in 2021, and its whole-government approach to digital education.
7.
Council Recommendation (EU) 2021/1004 of 14 June 2021 establishing a European Child Guarantee, which is aimed at preventing and combating social exclusion and ensuring equal opportunities by guaranteeing free access to education for children from disadvantaged backgrounds.
In this regard, the Recommendation underlines the importance of providing digital educational tools, high speed connectivity, digital services and adequate equipment, as well as of improving digital skills and tackling all forms of digital divide.
8.
The Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities 2021-2030, which indicates that effective use of digital technologies requires the removal of accessibility barriers for persons with disabilities and investing in their digital skills.